Affirming the research standing of the VNU  University of Economics and Business on the global academic stage, Associate Professor Dr. Vu Van Huong - a lecturer of the Faculty of Development Economics, Head of the Department of Statistics and Economic Research Methods - along with his collaborators, has recently published a research article in the Journal of Urban Economics, one of the most prestigious international journals in the field of economics. This journal ranks in the top 1% of the most influential academic publications worldwide.

The research is the result of a collaborative effort between Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vu Van Huong and two experts from International School – VNU – Dr. Nguyen Viet Cuong and Dr. Tran Quang Tuyen. More than a personal academic achievement, the publication reflects the research team’s serious commitment to contributing scientific knowledge to pressing issues of sustainable economic development in Vietnam, particularly in the post-war context and in relation to attracting international investment.

Entitled “The long-term effects of war on foreign direct investment and economic development: evidence from Vietnam”, the paper utilizes empirical data on areas contaminated with unexploded ordnance (UXO) from the war. The study reveals significant and long-lasting impacts on economic development. Specifically:

A 1% increase in UXO-contaminated land area leads to a 0.69% decrease in the density of foreign direct investment (FDI) enterprises in the affected area.

Joint-venture FDI firms are similarly affected, with an average decline of 0.56% in density.

Moreover, night-time light intensity – a commonly used proxy for local economic development - falls by 0.38% for each 1% increase in UXO-contaminated land.

These findings underscore that the consequences of war extend far beyond immediate damage, significantly undermining long-term economic potential and the capacity to attract sustainable investment in former conflict zones.

This study is not only an academic contribution but also carries profound practical implications. In the context of Vietnam’s ongoing efforts to attract FDI, promote regional development, and recover post-pandemic, the research serves as a timely reminder of the need for targeted recovery and sustainable development strategies in war-affected regions.

Assoc. Prof. Dr. Vu Van Huong currently serves as Head of the Department of Statistics and Economic Research Methods, Faculty of Development Economics, UEB - VNU. With a strong academic background and extensive experience in econometrics and applied statistics, he is recognized as a distinguished faculty member who has made substantial contributions to both teaching and research at UEB. In this study, he played a key role in developing the research framework, analyzing data, visualizing findings, and coordinating the manuscript preparation. His combination of sharp academic insight and practical understanding significantly enhanced the policy relevance and applicability of the research, especially in the context of Vietnam’s recovery and development efforts in regions severely affected by war.

The publication in the Journal of Urban Economics – a top-ranked journal in the field of urban economics — has further elevated the academic prestige of UEB–VNU and particularly its Faculty of Development Economics. This achievement also serves as strong evidence of UEB’s commitment to integrating research and practice, and to delivering education that is both academically rigorous and socially impactful.

Link to the article in the Journal of Urban Economics: [View here]

Development Economics – Learn to Make a Difference

The Faculty of Development Economics, University of Economics and Business – VNU, is a leading training ground for economists equipped with critical thinking and strong research capabilities. With an internationally standardized curriculum, a team of top-tier lecturers, and an inspiring learning environment, the Faculty welcomes the next generation of students to embark on a journey of academic excellence and sustainable development.