Analysis of Labour Migration Flows in the Mekong Delta of Vietnam

Abstract

Migration occurs as a response to economic development as well as to social, cultural, and environmental causes. This chapter explores migration patterns in the Mekong Delta (MD) region of Vietnam by using information in the Vietnam Household Living Standard Surveys for 2004 and 2006. The main purposes of the chapter are: (1) to gain insight into migration flows in the Mekong Delta region and (2) to identify the determinants of the migration flows regarding commune-related variables. From the description and the multivariate analysis, there are several interesting findings. First, the number of migrants in the Mekong Delta region has been increasing in recent years, and their destinations are the leading industrial and commercial cities in Vietnam, including Ho Chi Minh and Binh Duong. Second, “push” factors such as poverty and challenges in farm production are the key causes of migration flows. In addition, policy makers should take advantage of economic development programs as an adjustment tool in migration matters.