Hanoi Plans 20 Million Population Limit

Why this is here: By 2065, Hanoi aims for cultural industries to contribute 15 to 20 percent of its gross regional domestic product.

Vu Dai Thang, Chairman of Hanoi’s People’s Committee, signed a 100-year master plan for the city’s development on May 13. The plan covers Hanoi’s 3,359.84 square kilometer area and proposes a multi-layered urban structure centered around the Red River. Hanoi projects its population will reach roughly 14 to 15 million by 2035, growing to 17 to 19 million by 2065, with a firm cap of 20 million residents.

The city intends to dedicate about 55 to 60% of its land to construction by 2065. Remaining land will support green spaces and ecological corridors. By 2035, Hanoi aims for a $200 billion GRDP and a per capita GRDP exceeding $18,800.

The plan also focuses on cultural industries, hoping they contribute 10% of GRDP by 2035 and up to 20% by 2065. Though the plan details ambitions for river revitalization and smart city technologies, it does not specify funding sources or detailed timelines for addressing ongoing pollution. Hanoi continues to refine its vision for a sustainable future.