The French wanted to exploit the natural resources of Vietnam. For this, it took several measures:
(i) The French started building canals and draining lands in the Mekong delta area to increase cultivation. The vast system of irrigation works (canals and earthworks) increased the production of rice.
(ii) This was followed by infrastructure projects to help transport goods for trade, move military garrisons and control the entire region. Construction of a TransIndo-China rail network that would link the northern and southern parts of Vietnam and China was begun.
(iii) The French also owned the rubber plantations. They set up rail and port facilities to service this sector.
