Urban growth in pre- and post-reform Viet Nam: patterns and components of growth the 1979-1989 and 1989-1999 inter-censal periods.

In this study I try to provide a test of alternative urbanization theories from an analysis of patterns and components of urban growth in the pre- and post-reform eras. As well as China Viet Nam is carrying market reforms economically but under control of the socialist government; patterns and components of urban growth analyzed in Viet Nam conditions provide more empirical evidence to evaluate urbanization theories in a centrally planned economy and especially in a market economy controlled by the socialist government. Such an analysis also provides a scientifically based account of the demographic patterns for policy makers to consider. The paper includes some sections as followed: First I briefly review urbanization theories relating to urban growth in order to provide a theoretical and empirical background for my test of urbanization theories from analyses of urban growth. I then provide a summary of Viet Nam context relating to urbanization and urban growth in which historical characteristics of urbanization government policies and the impact of international migration on urban growth in Viet Nam will be discussed. On the basis of this theoretical and practical background I suggest hypotheses for analysis. Subsequently I describe the relevant data sources and methods including advantages and problems that affect the analysis. The main section is to present analyses of the patterns and components of urban growth for the 1979-1989 and 1989-1999 inter-censal periods. Finally I summarize the main findings and present some conclusions. (excerpt)