Tourists visit Sapa, Lao Cai (Source: VNA)Lao Cai targets to become a developed province in the northwest region with a 75 million VND (3,363 USD) GDP per capita by 2020, according to the local master plan for overall socio-economic development recently approved by the Prime Minister.
During the period, the mountainous province also strives to cut its poverty rate by 3-5 percent annually.
Developing industry, trade and tourism are intended to fuel these goals, said the plan.
Taking the industrial outlook into account, Lao Cai prioritises the formation of industrial complexes and current infrastructure upgrades. Local authorities are working on the feasibility of a project to build a 500-hectare industrial zone in western Lao Cai city.
Mining capacity will be maintained while the processing industry will see the establishment of several factories producing woodwork products and paper. The development of craft villages is also a target.
Lao Cai will develop border gate economic zones and border gate systems with focus on the Kim Thanh-Ban Vuoc trade and industrial area while expanding the existing Lao Cai border gate economic zone and improving its services.
Tourism has been earmarked as a key economic sector with high-quality products and services. Investments should be poured into tourist destinations such as Lao Cai city, and Sa Pa, Bac Ha, Bat Xat and Bao Thang districts to lure more visitors.-VNA
