Country
Population
Ho Chi Minh City, formerly known as Saigon, is the economic and financial centre of Vietnam. It is located in the southeastern region of the country. Ho Chi Minh City is among the fastest-growing cities in the world and its vibrant culture and history attract millions of visitors each year. The city is famous for its French colonial landmarks, including the Notre-Dame Cathedral, made entirely of materials imported from France, and the 19th-century Central Post Office. Other major attractions include the War Remnants Museum, the Reunification Palace, and the C? Chi tunnels used during the Vietnam War.
According to the General Statistics Office of Vietnam, as of 2019, Ho Chi Minh City had a population of 8.99 million. The city is known for its cultural diversity, with inhabitants from different regions of Vietnam bringing their local languages and cuisine. Religious beliefs in the city are diverse, with the majority of people identifying themselves as Buddhist, followed by Catholics, Protestants, and Muslims. The city is home to hundreds of cinemas, theatres, and other entertainment facilities. The Bitexco Financial Tower, standing 262 meters high, is the tallest building in Ho Chi Minh City and offers a panoramic view of the city. The Saigon Zoo and Botanical Gardens, dating from 1865, is one of the oldest zoos in the world.
Ho Chi Minh City is governed by a People's Committee, which acts as the executive arm of the city. The Chairman of the People's Committee is the executive officer. The legislative branch of the city is the Ho Chi Minh City People's Council and consists of 95 members. The judiciary branch of the city is the Ho Chi Minh City People's Court. The court's Judge is appointed by the President of Vietnam.
Ho Chi Minh City is the economic powerhouse of Vietnam, accounting for a large proportion of the country's economy. It has a diverse economy with sectors in technology, agriculture, and especially services—such as retail, tourism, banking, and finance—playing an increasingly large role. The city's GDP accounts for about 20% of the country's total GDP. Ho Chi Minh City is also the largest contributor to the state budget, and its economy is growing at a rapid pace, faster than the rest of the country.
Ho Chi Minh City has witnessed significant improvements in infrastructure over recent years, with numerous skyscrapers, shopping malls, and apartment buildings sprouting up across the city. The city is also planning to build an extensive public transportation system to reduce traffic congestion and pollution. Projects include the construction of metro lines, an airport in the southern province of Long Thanh, and a high-speed railway connecting Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. The city also plans to improve its water supply and waste treatment facilities.