Thanh Hóa province launches digital administration reforms and tourism boosts

The provincial government of Thanh Hóa has completed a major reorganization of its local administrative units, cutting the number of communes and neighborhood groups from 4,351 to 1,933 and focusing on strengthening the competence of frontline civil servants. A new electronic labor‑contract system, mandated by a Ministry of Interior decree, goes live on 1 July 2026, requiring all pre‑July contracts to be updated with digital signatures. The national e‑service portal is being turned into a one‑stop “digital public service” hub, improving access for citizens and businesses.

Consumer‑focused measures include a crackdown on suspicious e‑wallet services covering 12 banks and payment intermediaries, and substantial reductions in domestic air‑fare, with some routes falling by up to 50 % during the summer travel season. Animal health authorities are tightening controls on the transport and slaughter of livestock to curb the spread of African swine fever and avian influenza.

Celebrating one year since the opening of the local administrative service center, officials highlighted gains in service quality and transparency. In the cultural arena, the province is maintaining public order in urban areas, tightening safety checks on water‑way traffic on Lake Cửa Đạt, and supporting a high‑profile youth football tournament for U8 and U10 teams, part of the annual Thanh Hóa Media Cup. Tourism is peaking, with stable prices and improved facilities aimed at providing a safe, friendly environment for visitors.