Deputy Prime Minister Phạm Gia Túc at the meeting to discuss special policies for a national refining and energy centre at the Dung Quất Economic Zone. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — Permanent Deputy Prime Minister Phạm Gia Túc has asked for efforts to finalise special policies for the establishment a national refining and energy centre at the Dung Quất Economic Zone in the central province of Quảng Ngãi.

The Deputy PM said at a meeting on Wednesday that the proposed policies must be aligned with existing and upcoming regulations, adding that existing policies should be used wherever possible, with new mechanisms introduced only when necessary.

He also warned that implementation of the project was already behind schedule and that further delays in completing the proposal would prolong the process. Calling for a more practical approach, he urged authorities to formulate policies that could be implemented effectively.

Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Trương Thanh Hoài said that the proposed Dung Quất centre is expected to become an integrated industrial complex combining oil refining and petrochemicals, liquefied natural gas (LNG), electricity generation and renewable energy development, while supporting the transition towards a circular and low-carbon economy.

The project is planned to cover about 2,000ha of land and 2,700ha of water surface areas and establish a complete value chain spanning the import, storage and processing of crude oil and gas, as well as energy generation and the production of industrial goods for both domestic and export markets.

The centre will also integrate emerging technologies such as green hydrogen production, green ammonia and carbon capture solutions as part of Việt Nam's broader energy transition strategy.

Nguyễn Đức Tâm, chairman of the Quảng Ngãi People's Committee, said the project faces several major bottlenecks, including securing natural gas supplies for gas-fired power plants, upgrading infrastructure within the Dung Quất Economic Zone and accelerating compensation, resettlement and site-clearance work.

He said a range of special measures have been proposed, including increased allocations from the central budget for infrastructure development, streamlined administrative procedures and preferential tax and land policies aimed at attracting investors and highly skilled workers.

The proposals also include the establishment of a one-stop shop administrative mechanism to the Dung Quất Economic Zone management board to facilitate investment.

Additional incentives under consideration include preferential land and water surface rental fees, as well as pilot mechanisms for green hydrogen projects and the development of non-tariff zones. — VNS