Hanoi launches pilot of socialist‑style commune model in Phuc Thinh and Thu Lam

The Hanoi People's Committee has selected the neighboring communes of Phuc Thinh and Thu Lam to pilot a new "socialist commune" model, the first of its kind in the capital and the country. The pilot, approved at a July 16 conference, targets integrated urban‑green, smart and sustainable development, with 54 specific criteria covering political structures, digital governance, economic growth, infrastructure, social welfare and environmental protection. Both communes were chosen for ample land, rapid urbanisation, existing infrastructure and strategic location near major transport corridors and the Noi Bai airport.

The plan aims to raise living standards and citizen satisfaction, with a target population of about 700,000 by 2030. After the initial five‑year phase, Hanoi will assess results and may propose merging the two communes, while the remaining 124 districts are slated to adopt adapted criteria from 2026 onward. Officials emphasised the need for strong local political bases, transparent decision‑making, and continuous evaluation to adjust the model as needed.