Can Tho

Can Tho
Name	Can Tho
Native name	Cần Thơ
Settlement type	City
Coordinates	10, 02, N, 105...
Subdivision type	Country
Subdivision name	Vietnam
Subdivision type1	Region
Subdivision name1	Mekong Delta
Established title	Founded
Established date	1789
Government type	Municipality
Leader title	Secretary of the Party Committee
Leader name	Nguyễn Văn Hiếu
Leader title1	Chairman of the People's Committee
Leader name1	Trần Việt Trường
Area total km2	1440
Population total	1,235,171
Population as of	2019
Population density km2	auto
Timezone	Indochina Time
Utc offset	+7
Postal code type	Postal code
Postal code	900000
Area code	292
Website	cantho.gov.vn

Can Tho. It is the largest city in the Mekong Delta region of Vietnam and serves as its major economic, cultural, and transportation hub. Officially classified as a municipality under central government administration, the city is celebrated for its extensive network of rivers and canals, vibrant floating markets, and significant agricultural output. Can Tho plays a pivotal role in the regional economy, particularly in rice production, aquaculture, and fruit cultivation, while also developing its industrial and service sectors.

History

The area of present-day Can Tho was historically part of the Khmer Empire before being incorporated into Đàng Trong under the Nguyễn lords in the 18th century. It developed as a vital commercial center during the French colonial period, with infrastructure projects enhancing its role in the Mekong Delta's rice trade. During the Vietnam War, the city was the site of a major United States Air Force base and was a strategic location for the Army of the Republic of Vietnam. Following the Fall of Saigon in 1975, it was integrated into the unified Socialist Republic of Vietnam. In 2003, Can Tho was officially recognized as a centrally governed municipality, separating from the former Hậu Giang Province.

Geography

Can Tho is situated on the southern bank of the Hậu River, a major distributary of the Mekong River. The municipality's topography is characterized by flat, low-lying alluvial plains typical of the Mekong Delta, crisscrossed by a dense system of natural and man-made canals. It borders the provinces of Đồng Tháp to the north, Hậu Giang to the south and west, and Vĩnh Long to the east. The city's climate is classified as a tropical monsoon climate, with distinct wet and dry seasons influenced by the Southwest monsoon and the South China Sea.

Economy

As the economic engine of the Mekong Delta, Can Tho's economy is driven by agriculture, notably the production and export of rice, pangasius, shrimp, and tropical fruits like mango and longan. The city hosts the Can Tho University and several research institutes focused on Mekong Delta agriculture. Industrial zones such as Trà Nóc and Ô Môn are developing sectors in food processing, agricultural machinery, and textiles. The service sector is growing rapidly, centered around trade, finance, education, and tourism, with key attractions including the Cái Răng Floating Market and the Ninh Kiều Wharf.

Demographics

With a population exceeding 1.2 million as of 2019, Can Tho is the most populous city in the Mekong Delta. The majority of residents are Kinh (Viet), with small communities of Khmer, Hoa (Chinese), and other ethnic groups. The population is relatively young, and the city has a high population density, particularly in urban districts like Ninh Kiều and Cái Răng. Major religious practices include Buddhism, Catholicism, Caodaism, and Hòa Hảo.

Culture

The city's culture is deeply intertwined with the river-based life of the Mekong Delta. Can Tho is famous for its traditional floating markets like Cái Răng and Phong Điền, which are central to commerce and social life. Cultural festivals include the annual Can Tho Festival and the Southern Folk Cake Festival. The city is home to significant cultural sites such as the Bình Thủy Temple and the Can Tho Museum. Local cuisine features specialties like bún riêu, lẩu mắm (fermented fish hot pot), and various freshwater fish dishes.

Transport

Can Tho is a critical transportation node for the Mekong Delta. River transport remains vital, with the Cái Cui Port and Ninh Kiều Wharf handling substantial cargo and passenger traffic. Road connectivity is provided by National Route 1A and the Mỹ Thuận Bridge, linking the city to Ho Chi Minh City and other provinces. The Can Tho International Airport offers domestic flights and international connections to destinations like Singapore and Bangkok. The landmark Cần Thơ Bridge, spanning the Hậu River, is one of the longest cable-stayed bridges in Southeast Asia.

Category:Cities in Vietnam Category:Mekong Delta Category:Municipalities of Vietnam