PM Nguyen Tan Dung works with key leaders of the Northern province of Hai Duong, August 2, 2013 -  Photo: VGP/Nhat Bac

He made the statement during a meeting with the provincial officials in Ha Noi on August 2 regarding the locality’s socio-economic situation.

PM Dung asked Hai Duong to enhance the restructuring of its economy through improving productivity, quality and competitiveness of products and services.

Agriculture should be developed on a large scale, targeting closer production connectivity and stronger links with the processing industry, market expansion and scientific and technological applications, said the Government leader.

He reminded the leaders of the need to attract investment, boost industrial production, particularly hi-tech industrial projects with high competitiveness and added values, as well as protect the environment.

PM Dung also asked them to focus on developing socio-economic infrastructure, especially in transportation and irrigation, building new-style rural areas, enhancing vocational training and job creation, ensuring social welfare and improving the living standards for local residents.

For the first half of this year, Hai Duong province’s gross domestic product (GDP) has risen 7.2%, while state budget collection and export turnover increased 34% and 36.2%, respectively, compared to the same period last year.

This year, Hai Duong province is striving for a 6-6.5% economic growth and an export turnover rise of 12% to lift its annual average income per capita to VND33.6 million (US$1579).

By Ngoc Van