In 2026-2027, Vietnam aims to construct a high-speed railway connecting the North and South

The North-South High-Speed Railway project, spanning over 1,500 km, is expected to be implemented by 2026-2027, as announced by Minister of Transport Nguyen Van Thang. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh recently met with Mr. Lou Qiliang, Chairman of the Board of Directors and General Director of China Railway Signal Information Corporation (CRSC) in Dalian city, China. CRSC, which falls under the State Capital Administration Commission of China (SASAC), is a leading supplier of railway transport control systems worldwide.

During the meeting, Minister Thang highlighted Vietnam’s plan to develop a high-speed railway system from North to South before 2030, with a specific timeline of 2026-2027. He expressed Vietnam’s interest in collaborating with China in railway, rolling stock, and signaling sectors, citing China’s technological advancements and competitive pricing as key factors.

Vietnam aims to expand its highway network to 3,000 km by 2025 and 5,000 km by 2030, along with investing in railway infrastructure. The completion of projects like the North-South high-speed railway will enhance the country’s multimodal transport system, boosting national competitiveness. Prime Minister Chinh emphasized China’s expertise in high-speed and urban railways, hoping for collaboration on various railway projects connecting the two countries.

CRSC, as China’s leading enterprise in railway signaling, expressed interest in cooperating with Vietnam, particularly in research, development, and training for railway projects. Prime Minister Chinh agreed on the importance of human resources in railway development and called for further discussions to advance cooperation between the two countries.

Minister Thang mentioned ongoing railway projects between Vietnam and China, including the Lao Cai-Hanoi-Hai Phong route, set to be completed by mid-2025. He proposed collaboration on standard gauge railway projects linking strategic locations for economic growth. With CRSC operating in multiple countries, including prominent railway projects, Vietnam looks forward to fruitful partnerships in railway development through public-private partnerships (PPP).