The target is $500,000 more than last year’s one of $1.5 billion, but like last year, the actual amount received could double despite the global economic slowdown.

Nga pledged that the province would go side by side with business, concentrating on developing support industries to encourage foreign investors.

She said the sectors calling for investment were hi-tech industries, machinery, electronics, new materials, IT and telecommunications.

Dong Nai will consider pumping more investment into infrastructure upgrades – and training managers and skilled workers.

The province has absorbed $3billion in FDI this year, double its target. Of the total, $2.2 billion came from 80 newly-licensed projects and the remainder came from 110 capital-added projects.

The director of Dong Nai’s Department of Planning and Investment, Bo Ngoc Thu, said frequent dialogues would continue between enterprises, investors and local authorities to handle any difficulties.

Located in a main economic zone in the southern region, the province benefits from proximity to maritime posts and international airports and from progressive policies. It has attracted investment from 32 countries and territories. The province is studying ways of encouraging local business through trade promotion, training staff, information on investment and high priority industries as well as support for land rental.