The Transformation of Ho Chi Minh City’s Sports Sector into an Economic Pillar
Ho Chi Minh City (HCMC) is reimagining its approach to sports, seeing it not just as a competitive endeavor but as a vibrant economic sector poised for growth. With a concerted effort by city officials and stakeholders to leverage major sporting events and tourism, the city’s sports sector is being developed into a cornerstone of urban economic development.
A Shift in Perspective
Deputy Director of the HCMC Department of Culture and Sports, Nguyen Nam Nhan, emphasizes a crucial shift in mindset: the city is moving away from the conventional view of sports focused solely on medal counts. Instead, HCMC is positioning sports as a multifaceted economic segment that encompasses professional training, high-tech equipment production, and, notably, sports tourism. This holistic view is aimed at cultivating a “golden” market that capitalizes on diverse opportunities within the sports domain.
Capitalizing on Sports Events
HCMC has made significant strides in hosting high-frequency sports events, which not only draw participants and spectators but also contribute to substantial economic returns through sponsorships, tourism, and various sporting goods and services. Over the past five years, the city has seen remarkable growth in sports activities. For example, the 2022 HCMC Sports Games captured attention with 6,628 athletes participating—a 24% increase from previous iterations. This event not only served as a platform for athletic competition but also acted as a catalyst for stimulating the consumption of sports-related goods and services.
Highlighting Success Stories
One of the noteworthy achievements in this metamorphosis was the hosting of the 2024 World Teqball Championships, which marked a significant milestone for the city. The event not only attracted 470 million potential viewers globally—an astonishing 400% increase compared to the previous year—but also recorded a total media value of approximately $2.1 million, a sizeable spike from its predecessor event held in Bangkok. The visibility garnered by such events underscores the potential for HCMC to become an international hub for sports.
The Rise of Cultural and Martial Arts Festivals
HCMC’s commitment to diversifying its sports offerings is evident in events like the 2025 HCMC International Martial Arts Festival. This festival attracted an impressive 35,000 attendees and generated significant online engagement, with 3.8 million video views across social networks. The festival not only showcases martial arts but serves as a cultural melting pot and community exchange, further establishing HCMC as a focal point for martial arts enthusiasts globally.
Strategic Locations for Maximum Impact
The city’s strategy involves organizing events in accessible, central locations, optimizing opportunities for audience engagement and brand partnerships. This approach is designed to create a dynamic and inviting atmosphere that not only fosters professional athleticism but also enhances tourism. Director Nguyen Nam Nhan notes that these events are intricately linked to developing innovative tourism products, drawing both local and international attention.
The Development Triangle Strategy
Looking to the future, HCMC’s sports sector is embracing an innovative Development Triangle strategy, comprising three key areas:
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Traditional HCMC Area: Positioned as a hub for training, research, and the application of advanced sports science.
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Binh Duong Area: Identified for its potential to discover and nurture athletic talent, alongside fostering a domestic sports equipment industry.
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Ba Ria-Vung Tau Area: A prime locale for developing marine sports and hosting national and international competitions.
This cohesive approach aims to build a “sports triangle,” addressing elite training, human resource development, and sports event organization, all supported by a comprehensive digital infrastructure.
Embracing a New Era
HCMC’s strategy to integrate sports into its economic framework reflects a forward-thinking vision that captures the essence of modern urban development. By promoting sports beyond their traditional boundaries, the city aims to turn its vibrant sports culture into a financial and social advantage, blending athletic endeavors with economic prosperity. Through strategic planning and community engagement, Ho Chi Minh City is on the path to becoming a notable player in the global sports arena.