Vietnam directs social security reforms and regional development

Vietnam's General Secretary and President Tô Lâm has directed the development of a multi-layered, inclusive social security system centered on citizens. Addressing shortcomings in current policies, the leadership emphasized the need to protect informal and migrant workers, as well as managing the pressures of an aging population, which is projected to reach 20% of the total population by 2036.

Key directives include the urgent creation of a national social security database to connect health, insurance, tax, and employment data. The government aims to establish national indices to measure coverage, service quality, and citizen satisfaction.

In a separate strategic move, the Politburo issued Resolution 27 regarding regional development. The resolution aims to restructure national growth by optimizing the roles of six socio-economic regions. By 2030, the Red River Delta is targeted to be a high-tech and digital economy driver, while Ho Chi Minh City is envisioned as an international financial center and a major growth engine for the Southeast region.