If you are considering moving to Vietnam but want to avoid the bigger cities, Hai Phong might be the ideal destination. As a smaller northern city, it has the charm and community Ha Noi is known for at a fraction of the living cost. Learn more about working in Hai Phong and what to expect as a new expat!
Hai Phong's economy and industries to watch
Hai Phong is one of the largest port cities in Vietnam. In 2024, the GRDP growth , and the city came third nationwide in terms of economic development. The port also provides a wealth of jobs, along with the national and international companies that have been set up here in the past decade. It remains a unique bubble due to employment focusing on jobs within transportation and logistics, and the community remains tight-knit.
After its port, one of the main pillars of Hai Phong's economy is the agricultural sector. Although Hai Phong is a city, a large portion of its land is used for rice cultivation as well as other agricultural products such as corn, sugar cane, and peanuts. Fishing and aquaculture also contribute to its economic growth. These sectors, however, mostly recruit locals.
On the other hand, the service, trade, industry, and export sectors have seen rapid growth and often employ foreigners. The industrial and construction sectors account for almost 50% of Hai Phong's GDP. These spheres consist of activities such as cement production, iron, plastic pipes, pharmaceutical products, food, and electronics. The textile and shipbuilding industries are flourishing.
Hai Phong authorities have decided to diversify economic activities in the region through the construction of the new Nam Trang Cat industrial park hosting many specialized local, national, and international companies. As in many other locations, the field of information and communication technologies is also rising steadily.
How to job hunt in Hai Phong
When you begin job hunting in Hai Phong, the number one thing to remember is patience. This won't be a fast process, and due to the size of the town and its limited foreigner community, you'll want to remember it's not a race and to make sure you are financially secure with savings.
Start by checking job posting websites. Across the country, , , and are popular and in use! Companies are actively seeking qualified candidates and will browse resumes that align with their company's vacancies.
If you already have a strong foundation in Hai Phong or are curious about opportunities, here is an outline of various sectors where you might be especially employable.
- English teaching: With a bachelor's degree and a TEFL, you can apply to international schools located in Hai Phong. These schools include Vietnam and Hai Phong.
- As the trade markets continue to expand, working in this field will be more lucrative. If you are bilingual, looking for roles as 鈥淟ogistics Service Manager鈥� or 鈥淚mport/Export Paperwork Staff鈥� will be right up your alley!
- Hospitality is quickly growing in Hai Phong, and brands like and (hiring conducted under Accor) currently have vacancies for many roles. Experience in this industry will be mandatory to apply.
Lifestyle in Hai Phong
Hai Phong has traditionally been viewed by foreigners as an industrial port town and a base to explore Halong Bay. However, the city holds its own charm. If you are living and working in Hai Phong, you can expect a quality of life at a slower pace than in the country's other main cities.
Living in Hai Phong means you will be immersed in Vietnamese culture, and you'll need to remain dedicated to learning how to communicate. Unlike the bigger metropolises, this city will not cater to your needs, but residents will appreciate your efforts towards communicating and helping as much as they can.
Hai Phong is incredibly picturesque with its rolling hills and spread of water, not to mention the flame flower trees dotted along the sidewalks.
As an expatriate, it might be better to network before moving to this city, as the remote lifestyle can be fairly challenging. If you are someone who thrives in social situations, this might not be the place to find work or be stationed for long periods of time. However, this is a great city for those content with their own company and looking to focus on learning Vietnamese and saving money.
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