Lam Đong, May 18, 2026 – The Europe Today: The Phú Quý special zone, an island district located off Vietnam’s south-central coast, is leveraging its vast marine resources to drive economic transformation, improve livelihoods and strengthen its position as a key sea-based economic hub in the region.
Situated approximately 120 kilometres southeast of the mainland, Phú Quý is widely known as a “pearl island” due to its pristine landscapes, crystal-clear waters and rich marine biodiversity. The special zone, home to nearly 32,000 residents, was established through the merger of the Long Hải, Ngũ Phụng and Tam Thanh communes.
Authorities said the island has made significant progress in developing marine and island eco-tourism in recent years, attracting growing numbers of domestic and international visitors. Popular destinations include Triều Dương Bay, Doi Dừa Beach and Gành Hang, along with several historical and cultural heritage sites.
Tourism development accelerated after the island secured a stable 24/7 electricity supply in 2016, opening a new phase of socio-economic growth. In 2025, Phú Quý welcomed around 155,000 visitors, marking a 5 per cent increase compared to the previous year, while tourism revenue exceeded VNĐ200 billion (approximately US$7.6 million).
Transport links between the mainland and the island have also improved considerably. The Phan Thiết–Phú Quý route is currently served by five high-speed boats alongside regular cargo vessels, facilitating tourism, trade and passenger movement.
Nguyễn Văn Khoa, Chairman of the provincial Tourism Association, said Phú Quý’s tourism sector remains at an early stage compared to other destinations but possesses strong growth potential due to its natural beauty, marine ecosystems and cultural heritage.
Local authorities are focusing on diversified tourism products associated with green and sustainable development, while campaigns aimed at reducing plastic waste and protecting the marine environment have also been intensified. Cultural tourism, including traditional festivals and historical attractions, is increasingly drawing visitors seeking authentic local experiences.
Alongside tourism, fisheries continue to serve as a major pillar of the island’s economy. Benefiting from extensive fishing grounds and abundant marine resources, Phú Quý has emerged as one of the province’s key fisheries centres.
Lê Hồng Lợi, Chairman of the People’s Committee of the special zone, said local fishermen have made substantial investments in offshore fishing fleets and modern equipment. The island currently operates nearly 1,680 fishing vessels, including more than 160 logistics and seafood transport boats supporting offshore operations.
Fishing activities around the Trường Sa (Spratly) archipelago and DK1 platform areas contribute significantly to the local economy, with annual seafood production averaging approximately 30,000 tonnes.
The island has also developed one of the province’s largest semi-natural floating cage aquaculture systems, comprising over 50 farming facilities covering 7,000 square metres and producing more than 100 tonnes of seafood annually.
Authorities have intensified awareness campaigns promoting marine conservation, sustainable fisheries and compliance with anti-illegal fishing regulations. Patrols and inspections have also been strengthened to prevent the use of destructive fishing methods and safeguard marine resources.
Looking ahead, local officials aim to transform Phú Quý into a major marine tourism and fisheries service centre in south-central Vietnam. Prior to its merger with Lâm Đồng Province in July 2025, the former Bình Thuận Province officially recognised Phú Quý as a provincial-level tourism area, creating opportunities for more professional and diversified tourism development.
Nguyễn Lâm Ngọc, Deputy Director of the provincial Department of Culture, Sports and Tourism, said the island is expected to become a leading tourism destination by 2030, focusing on green marine tourism linked to cultural heritage and coastal ecosystems.
Authorities are also mobilising investment to upgrade infrastructure, modernise fishing fleets, expand seafood processing and logistics services, and reinforce the island’s role as a fisheries logistics, search-and-rescue and seafood processing centre for Vietnam’s south-central coastal region.
Local leaders said recent achievements reflect the determination of both authorities and residents to build a stronger and more prosperous island economy rooted in sustainable marine development.
