By aligning with national policies and highlighting its investment incentives and industrial zone advantages, Yen Bai has boosted investor interest. As of the end of the first quater of 2025, its industrial zones have attracted 96 projects,18 of which are FDI with total registered capital exceeding VND 16,600 billion over 457 hectares.

Notably, 2024 marked a breakthrough year for new investment attraction. The province issued investment policy decisions and registration certificates for 8 new projects with a total capital of over VND 1,300 billion, representing an increase of nearly 130% compared to the same period in 2023. one of the projects was worth VND 160 billion (approximately USD 6.65 million).

This growth momentum continued into the first quarter of 2025, with 8 newly licensed projects totaling nearly VND 720 billion in investment over an area of 22.3 hectares.

Project adjustments also demonstrate the province’s flexibility and responsiveness to investors' expansion needs. In 2024, 15 projects underwent adjustments, resulting in an additional capital injection of over VND 120 billion. In the first quarter of 2025, 10 projects were adjusted, with an added investment capital of VND 500 billion. This reflects the effective operation and sustainable growth plans of businesses currently active in the province.

The vibrancy of investment activities is clearly reflected in the landscape and occupancy rates of industrial zones. The Southern Yen Bai Industrial Zone remains the province’s flagship, hosting 69 projects with a total capital of over VND 12,500 billion, Minh Quan Industrial Zone has attracted 16 projects totaling over VND 2,200 billion, with an occupancy rate of 91.16%. Meanwhile, Au Lau Industrial Zone has registered 11 projects worth more than VND 1,800 billion, with an occupancy rate of 81.23%.

As of the end of March 2025, out of the 96 licensed projects, 47 are in operation or undergoing trial runs, 14 are under construction, and 35 are in the process of land clearance, compensation, and completing administrative procedures.

Mr. Trinh Huynh Yen, Head of the Yen Bai Industrial Zones Authority, stated that the province not only focuses on licensing but also consistently supports and accompanies investors throughout the implementation and operation of their projects.

A wide range of procedures such as approval of master site plans, appraisal of feasibility study reports, construction design reviews, issuance of construction permits, and approval for infrastructure connection have been handled promptly, creating favorable conditions for investors to carry out their production and business activities efficiently.

To date, industrial zones in Yen Bai Province have created jobs for over 5,000 workers, with an average monthly salary of approximately VND 6.5 million per person. Many companies, such as Thien An Vietnam Wood Industry Co., Ltd. and Vietnam International Mineral Joint Stock Company, offer highly competitive wages. Notably, 98% of employees are enrolled in social insurance. The Yen Bai Industrial Zones Authority also regularly coordinates with enterprises to promote labor policies and support recruitment efforts.

Additionally, the province has strengthened guidance for businesses in complying with environmental protection regulations, ensuring proper periodic monitoring, waste management, and treatment of emissions and wastewater. Relevant agencies are directed to frequently inspect, maintain, and repair technical infrastructure such as security, traffic safety, drainage, and lighting systems to best support enterprise operations.

In recent years, businesses operating in Yen Bai's industrial zones have made significant contributions to local economic growth. In 2024, the province’s total industrial production value was estimated at VND 9,290 billion (up 40.1% from 2023); sales revenue reached approximately VND 9,774 billion; and exports were estimated at USD 170 million (an increase of 69.7%). Contributions to the state budget exceeded VND 130 billion.

In the first quarter of 2025, the total industrial production value was estimated at nearly VND 1,600 billion (up 5.22% year-over-year), while total sales revenue exceeded VND 1,650 billion.

Despite the positive results, investment attraction and management in Yen Bai’s industrial zones still face several challenges and obstacles. Some projects have been temporarily suspended due to market difficulties, limited capital, or the lack of a fully developed centralized waste treatment system. Businesses have also raised concerns about incomplete infrastructure yet still being charged fees, and overlapping inspections from different agencies.

Amid increasingly fierce competition for investment capital, Yen Bai Province is demonstrating strong determination to build a truly transparent, efficient, and business-friendly investment environment. Comprehensive solutions are being actively implemented across all levels to remove bottlenecks and effectively "roll out the red carpet" to attract and support investors.

A top priority for Yen Bai Province is administrative reform. The province has directed departments and agencies to review, streamline, and eliminate unnecessary procedures, while also accelerating the adoption of digital technologies and e-governance to better serve citizens and businesses.

Significant attention is also being given to improving investment infrastructure, with a focus on upgrading inter-regional transport networks and infrastructure within industrial parks and clusters. Proactive land-use planning and the creation of clean land banks are seen as key steps in welcoming large-scale investors.

Importantly, Yen Bai maintains a regular and meaningful dialogue mechanism with businesses. Periodic conferences at both provincial and departmental levels provide a platform for local leaders to listen, address concerns, and issue immediate directives to resolve obstacles faced by enterprises.

With a clear vision and the committed involvement of the entire political system, Yen Bai is positioning itself as a reliable partner for businesses driving rapid and sustainable socio-economic growth in the province.