Hekou Border Economic Cooperation Zone

Hekou Border Economic Cooperation Zone (HKBECZ) is a Chinese State Council-approved Industrial Park based in Hekou County, Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan, China, founded in 1993 and was established to promote trade between China and Vietnam. Transport links with Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi, Vietnam include:

  • Rail: Yunnan–Vietnam Railway
  • Road: Kunming-Hanoi Highway
  • Waterway: Red River (Asia)

Sino-Vietnamese business is growing fast, especially in recent years. In 1999, total foreign trade of Sino-Vietnam businesses amounted to USD 72.21 million while border trade was USD 45.94 million.

Main export products include clothing, cotton yarn, ceresin wax, mechanical equipment, batteries, fruits, rice seeds and tobacco.

The Vietnamese government fully endorses Sino-Vietnam border trade. With effect from 15 January 1999, import and export had been catalogued in accordance with the international tax rate. Also, three kinds of products, namely, rubber, coal and marine, are exported with zero tax rates. Since March 1999, the government has encouraged more trade channels and more types of products for trade.

Hekou Border Economic Cooperation Zone (Hekou BECZ) is a pivotal economic initiative located in Hekou Yao Autonomous County, Honghe Prefecture, Yunnan Province, China. Positioned at the intersection of China and Vietnam, this zone serves as a gateway for cross-border trade, investment, and cultural exchange between the two nations. Established to enhance regional economic integration and promote bilateral cooperation, Hekou BECZ plays a crucial role in fostering economic growth, industrial development, and cross-border connectivity.

Location

Hekou BECZ is strategically situated in Hekou Yao Autonomous County, Yunnan Province, China, adjacent to the international border with Vietnam. This location provides direct access to the northern part of Vietnam and facilitates seamless connectivity with major transportation routes, including highways, railways, and waterways. It serves as a vital link between Southwest China and Southeast Asia, promoting trade facilitation, logistical efficiency, and regional connectivity.

Objectives

Economic Development

The primary objective of Hekou BECZ is to stimulate economic development through cross-border trade, investment promotion, and industrial cooperation. It aims to attract foreign direct investment (FDI), facilitate international trade, and enhance the competitiveness of local industries, thereby contributing to regional economic growth and prosperity.

Cross-Border Connectivity

As a hub for cross-border connectivity, Hekou BECZ focuses on improving transportation infrastructure, customs clearance procedures, and logistical efficiency. It aims to streamline cross-border trade processes, reduce trade barriers, and promote smoother movement of goods, services, and personnel between China and Vietnam.

Key Initiatives

Trade and Investment Promotion

Hekou BECZ facilitates trade and investment promotion initiatives to attract foreign businesses, multinational corporations, and investors seeking opportunities in Southwest China and Southeast Asia. It offers preferential policies, tax incentives, and regulatory support to encourage business establishment, expansion, and operational efficiency within the zone.

Industrial Development

To promote industrial development, Hekou BECZ develops specialized industrial zones and clusters focused on sectors such as manufacturing, logistics, agribusiness, and tourism. It encourages technological innovation, industrial collaboration, and value-added production to enhance sectoral competitiveness and contribute to regional economic diversification.

Sector Focus

Manufacturing and Processing

Hekou BECZ promotes manufacturing and processing industries, including electronics, textiles, machinery, and consumer goods production. It supports technological upgrades, industrial automation, and quality assurance measures to meet international standards and satisfy market demand across China and Vietnam.

Agribusiness and Food Processing

Recognizing the agricultural potential of the region, Hekou BECZ emphasizes agribusiness, food processing, and agricultural product export. It supports sustainable farming practices, agricultural innovation, and value chain integration to enhance agricultural productivity, ensure food security, and promote regional agricultural exports.

Cross-Border Tourism and Cultural Exchange

Tourism Development

Hekou BECZ promotes cross-border tourism, cultural exchange, and tourism-related infrastructure development. It showcases cultural heritage sites, natural landscapes, and ethnic diversity to attract domestic and international tourists. It supports tourism enterprises, hospitality services, and cultural events that promote cross-border understanding and cultural appreciation.

Cultural Exchange

In fostering cultural exchange, Hekou BECZ facilitates cultural exhibitions, festivals, and educational programs that promote mutual understanding and appreciation between Chinese and Vietnamese cultures. It supports cultural exchanges, language studies, and academic collaborations to strengthen bilateral ties and promote cultural diversity within the zone.

Sustainable Development and Environmental Conservation

Green Initiatives

Hekou BECZ adopts green development practices, environmental conservation measures, and sustainable resource management strategies. It promotes energy efficiency, waste reduction, and eco-friendly technologies to minimize environmental impact and support long-term sustainability goals.

Community Engagement

Hekou BECZ engages with local communities, residents, and stakeholders through social development programs, educational initiatives, and community-based projects. It supports vocational training, employment opportunities, and social welfare programs to enhance quality of life, empower local communities, and foster inclusive socio-economic development.

Conclusion

Hekou Border Economic Cooperation Zone exemplifies Yunnan Province’s commitment to cross-border economic integration, regional cooperation, and sustainable development. By leveraging its strategic location, trade facilitation initiatives, and sectoral specialization, the zone creates opportunities for economic growth, industrial collaboration, and cultural exchange between China and Vietnam. Experience the convergence of trade, investment, tourism, and cultural diplomacy at Hekou BECZ, where cross-border connectivity fuels prosperity, innovation, and mutual understanding across the China-Vietnam border.