Ho Chi Minh City named SE Asia’s first UNESCO creative city for film

The designation was announced as part of the addition of 58 new cities to the UCCN on World Cities Day (October 31). 

The network, established in 2004, now includes 408 cities from over 100 countries across eight creative fields, including film, design, music, literature, crafts and folk art, gastronomy, media arts, and architecture.

UNESCO director-general Audrey Azoulay said the network demonstrates how culture and creative industries can drive development. 

"By welcoming 58 new cities, we are strengthening a network where creativity supports local initiatives, attracts investments, and promotes social cohesion," she said.

Vietnam now counts four members of the network: Hanoi for design, Da Lat for music, Hoi An for crafts and folk art, and Ho Chi Minh City for film.

Other Southeast Asian members include Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, for design, and Malang, Indonesia, for digital arts.

Deputy Foreign Minister Ngo Le Van called the recognition a milestone for Vietnam's cultural diplomacy and integration policies, linking it to national programs aimed at developing cultural and creative industries through 2035. 

He said the designation will showcase Vietnamese creativity globally and enhance the country's cultural presence.

Ambassador Nguyen Thi Van Anh, Vietnam's permanent representative to UNESCO, said the recognition followed a rigorous review process and reflects the international community's acknowledgment of Ho Chi Minh City's potential as a regional film hub, according to The World & Vietnam Report.

The city applied to join the network on March 3, with guidance from domestic and international experts, including support from Cannes' cultural office in France.  

Membership is expected to facilitate international collaborations, exchange of expertise, and further development of Ho Chi Minh City's cultural industries, projected to contribute 7.2 percent of its gross regional domestic product by 2030.