Vietnam’s North-South High-Speed Rail Project: A Key Component of Its Multimodal Transport Network

The North-South High-Speed Railway project, spanning over 1,500 km, is set to be implemented by 2026-2027, as stated by Minister of Transport Nguyen Van Thang. The project is a vital component of Vietnam’s plan to have 3,000 km of highways by 2025 and expand to 5,000 km by 2030.

To achieve this goal, Vietnam aims to invest heavily in railway infrastructure, with the North-South high-speed railway project being a key component. To enhance the competitiveness of the country and complete its multimodal transport network, the Ministry of Transport has proposed different scenarios for the North-South railway project. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh hopes for China’s support in design, construction, and technology transfer.

China Railway Signal Information Corporation (CRSC), known for its expertise in developing railway signaling systems and setting technical and product standards in the industry, expressed interest in collaborating with Vietnam on railways, rolling stock, and signaling technologies crucial for the safety of high-speed and urban railways. Prime Minister Chinh emphasized the importance of training human resources for railway projects and encouraged discussions between the two countries to promote cooperation in this area.

Vietnam and China are working on three railway projects linking the two countries. The first project is expected to be completed by mid-2025. Minister Thang proposed collaboration on standard gauge railway projects connecting key areas such as seaports, economic zones, industrial parks, and airports. The involvement of businesses like CRSC through public-private partnerships is seen as a way to enhance economic efficiency in these projects.

Overall, Vietnam’s investment in railway infrastructure will play a crucial role in enhancing national competitiveness and completing its multimodal transport network. Collaboration with China on railways will enable Vietnam to leverage Chinese expertise while promoting mutual benefits that will benefit both countries’ economies.