The central city of Đà Nẵng continues to top the Provincial Competitiveness Index (PCI) for the fourth consecutive year.

However, the secretary of the city’s Party Committee, Nguyễn Xuân Anh, is still not satisfied. Local media talk to him about the city’s efforts to reform administrative procedures to provide a favourable business environment for investors.

Could you share your experience in helping Đà Nẵng stay on the top of the 2016 PCI?

Đà Nẵng has facilitated business operation in the city not only because of the top position. We are always thinking how to create the most favourable conditions for business. We are deeply aware that the success of businesses is the city’s success.

The 2016 index recognises the efforts by the business community and professional agencies. It is an honour and pride for the city. However, we will have to continue to strive for the business community whether we are on top or not.

Đà Nẵng has topped the index for four consecutive years. What’s left to reform?

On the 100-point scale, Đà Nẵng reached 70. So we still have 30 points to go before really reaching the top. We are not satisfied with the results. Also, taking the lead position does not mean holding it forever. We still have many areas for further improvement.

We have targeted the enhancement of support services and administrative capacity for business. These are areas in which we have not had high scores.

We want to treat all investors in the most equal and transparent way. In addition, we want to further improve all administrative procedures relating to taxes, lands and licences.

Many people think Đà Nẵng will maintain its top ranking? What do you think?

In PCI history, Đà Nẵng had been in the 12th and fifth positions. I think we could lose our competitive edge. Other localities might also spare no efforts. If we do not move forward, we could move backward.

The Chairman of the Việt Nam Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Vũ Tiến Lộc, has said local-level leaders seem to lack a spirit of administrative reform. How do you assess the situation in Đà Nẵng?

 I think the implementation of national leaders’ guidelines at local levels is extremely important. Đà Nẵng authorities at all levels know that providing the most favourable conditions for businesses is our task.

The Prime Minister asked the city to have 40,000 to 50,000 firms by the year of 2020. We now have 19,000 companies. We will have to try hard to reach the set targets.

Does Đà Nẵng pay attention to environmental factors in attracting foreign investment?

We have placed environmental factors as a top priority. Đà Nẵng will not trade a clean environment for the sake of foreign investment. Sectors negative affecting the environment will not be welcomed in Đà Nẵng. All investors are welcome if they follow laws and regulations. — VNS