Ho Chi Minh City targets global cultural city status by 2045

The plan also targets a happiness index among the top in Asia and aims for the city's cultural exports to account for at least 15 percent of Vietnam's total cultural export value by 2045.

By 2030, the city plans to build at least five cultural and sports facilities meeting international standards and develop at least five national cultural industry brands in sectors including film, performing arts, advertising, and cultural tourism.

It also aims to host and upgrade at least six major cultural and sporting events to international standards and ensure all local communities have access to cultural and sports infrastructure.

Authorities said all nationally recognized cultural heritage sites would be digitized by 2026 and city-level sites by 2027.

The city will allocate at least two percent of its annual budget to cultural development, with increases based on demand.

Plans include seeking UNESCO World Heritage status for the Cu Chi Tunnels and expanding cultural spaces along the Saigon River.

The strategy also outlines policy measures to support artists and develop specialized cultural industry zones, with the city center focused on governance and creative production and surrounding areas on design, manufacturing, and international events.