Spatio-Temporal Analysis of Port Expansion in Hai Phong, Vietnam, Using Remote Sensing and GIS and Its Socio-Economic Implications

Port cities are dynamic socio-ecological systems where rapid infrastructure development interacts with coastal processes and urban growth. Hai Phong Port, the largest seaport complex in northern Vietnam, has undergone substantial spatial expansion over the past two decades, driven by increasing trade demand and regional economic integration. However, comprehensive assessments of the spatio-temporal evolution of port infrastructure and its socio-economic implications remain limited.

This study applies multi-temporal remote sensing and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to quantitatively analyze the spatial dynamics of Hai Phong Port and adjacent urban areas from 2000 to 2025. Landsat and Sentinel satellite imagery were processed using supervised classification and post-classification change detection techniques to derive land use and land cover (LULC) transitions, shoreline modifications, and port-related land reclamation. Spatial metrics were employed to characterize the magnitude, rate, and spatial configuration of port expansion.

To evaluate socio-economic implications, geospatial indicators extracted from remote sensing data were integrated with district-level statistics on population density, industrial activity, employment, and cargo throughput. Spatial correlation and trend analyses were conducted to examine linkages between port expansion and socio-economic development patterns. The results indicate a pronounced seaward and linear expansion of port infrastructure, accompanied by accelerated industrialization and urban growth in surrounding districts. While these transformations have contributed to regional economic growth and improved logistics connectivity, they have also intensified land-use conflicts and pressures on coastal ecosystems and local livelihoods.

This research demonstrates the value of integrating remote sensing and GIS for long-term monitoring of port city dynamics and their socio-economic impacts. The proposed framework provides a transferable methodological approach to support sustainable planning and policy development in rapidly growing port cities, particularly in coastal regions of Southeast Asia.