To create momentum for socio-economic development, in recent years, Son La city has focused on effectively implementing planning and investing in completing transportation infrastructure in a synchronous and modern manner, connecting urban and rural areas, promoting trade and transportation, and contributing to fulfilling the criteria for a type I urban area. Thanks to sound development policies, Son La city has taken strategic steps in building infrastructure systems and expanding the urban area.

Mr. Nguyen Khac Thanh, Party Branch Secretary and Head of Group 4, Quyet Thang Ward, Son La City:“Having lived in Son La since the 1960s, I've seen remarkable changes in the city, especially in urban infrastructure. Many urban areas have been built, such as Kim Son and Picenza, transforming the city's appearance…”

Besides infrastructure development, Son La has also made its mark with socio-economic achievements. The city's gross domestic product (GRDP) in 2023 reached over 9,500 billion VND, with an average growth rate of 8% per year over the past five years. GRDP per capita reached over 58 million VND per year, 1.5 times higher than five years ago. Local budget revenue reached nearly 2,000 billion VND per year.

Mr. Leo Van Huong, Chairman of the People's Committee of Chieng Xom Commune, Son La City:"Since the construction of the New Rural Commune, 100% of inter-commune roads have been concreted, the economy has shifted appropriately, and the lives of the people have improved..."

Along with economic development come positive changes in people's lives. Modern urban areas, healthcare systems, and education facilities are improving the quality of life for the people of Son La day by day. Many projects have become, and continue to be, highlights of the region.

Ms. Pham Thanh Quy, Group 10, Chieng Le Ward, Son La City:"As a native of Son La city, I am very honored and proud to see that Son La city has undergone significant changes over the past time. Many new roads have been built, renovated, and beautified, becoming more spacious and clean. In particular, public works have also been invested in and constructed, thereby meeting the needs of community cultural activities and entertainment for the city's residents."

In the future, Son La city continues to aim to become a type II urban area by 2025, with many strategic projects being implemented. These include plans to develop satellite urban areas, expand transportation connections, and invest in commercial and service infrastructure.

Mr. Tran Cong Chinh, Vice Chairman of the People's Committee of Son La City:“Besides focusing on infrastructure development, the city is gradually attracting investment from domestic and foreign investors, as well as investors with local resources within the province, to build a more modern and beautiful city. The city also prioritizes investment in building cultural centers and schools, which are key areas of investment. Along with economic development, the focus is on infrastructure development to create a more modern and attractive city.”

With the implementation of flexible and effective solutions, Son La city's urban infrastructure is gradually being improved, synchronized, and modernized, serving as an important driving force for socio-economic development, aiming to become a Class I city and improve the quality of life for its people.

Performed by: Duy Thai - Cao Nguyen