Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam: Global agency 54 is partnering with real estate business HODECO to develop the golfing infrastructure and sustainable, luxury living assets in the fast-expanding south Vietnam tourism resort Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu.

The strategic agreement, concluded at a signing ceremony in Ho Chi Minh City, will see the sports and entertainment group extend its impact in the Southeast Asian country by supporting with golf resort development, sourcing international partners, strategic positioning, investment promotion and event management.

54 has extensive experience working with partners and government bodies focusing on golf as a driver of tourism and economic growth, and this new collaboration will create sustainable development which positions Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu as a premier destination.

The resort, which features the flagship Wonderland sustainable eco-tourism project, already has three operational courses and eight more are in the planning pipeline.

This year, Vietnam aims to welcome between 25 and 28 million international visitors and 130 million domestic tourists, contributing 8-9% to the national GDP.

Ben Styles, Executive Director 54, said: “Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu has always been a land rich with potential. More than a decade ago, when we first brought international golf tournaments here, I already believed this place could ascend to become a leading tourism and investment hub in the region.

“Today, that belief is strengthened as we join hands with HODECO, a pioneering enterprise, acutely attuned to global trends in golf, real estate, and lifestyle.

“With 54’s international capabilities and integrated eco-system, we aim to deliver ground-breaking development models, where golf seamlessly integrates into living spaces, establishing new benchmarks for real estate and community.”

Doan Huu Thuan, Chairman of HODECO’s Board of Directors, said: “We see golf as an essential element in the master planning of modern cities, and an inevitable part of Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu’s development journey.

“Golf enhances land use value, contributes to the green economy, and significantly boosts the appeal of high-end real estate. It meets the rising demands of the market while attracting tourists, investors, and professionals to the region.

“This vision is reflected in our flagship project, Wonderland, a sustainably designed eco-tourism destination for all generations, offering a balance of family-friendly experiences and environmental stewardship.

“The project features distinct zones for leisure, wellness, five-star resorts, luxury villas, and a unique 18-hole golf course built around the area’s natural topography. Wonderland is set to become a new symbol of upscale living and world-class golf experiences in Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu.”

A spokesperson for 54 said the agreement marks the beginning of a long-term strategy that connects real estate, industry, sports, and lifestyle. “As Bà Rịa – Vũng Tàu rises as a new central point for tourism and infrastructure investment in southern Vietnam, the HODECO-54 partnership sets the stage for sustainable urban development aligned with global trends,” said the spokesperson.

*54 is a Full Business Member of the Asian Golf Industry Federation.