In order to fill the gaps in transportation and optimize the logistics system, Vietnam is targeting foreign investment to lay out railway infrastructure. The local government has announced a new round of key investment promotion list, launched four core railway projects, and relied on market-oriented models to attract overseas capital and technology, helping to upgrade the domestic transportation network.

Heavy project landing

The Vietnamese Ministry of Finance has released a draft list of foreign direct investment projects from 2026 to 2030, which includes all four major railway projects recommended by the Ministry of Construction. The projects are constructed using a public-private partnership model, with a single project investment exceeding 958 million US dollars and a total investment exceeding 17 billion US dollars. The four major railway lines cover the core areas of central and southern Vietnam, including multiple key passages connecting ports and cities, which precisely fit the overall development plan of the national railway.

The dilemma of attracting investment is highlighted

The promotion of foreign investment in large-scale infrastructure projects in Vietnam has been hindered, and the effectiveness of key investment projects in the past has been uneven. Railway projects have shortcomings such as large investment volume, long return cycle, and limited returns. At the same time, the domestic public-private partnership system and risk sharing mechanism are not perfect, making it difficult to fully attract international investors. Some planned projects have been delayed in implementation. Keywords: Vietnam railway infrastructure, foreign investment attraction, transportation upgrading

Breaking through the situation, improving quality and efficiency

Industry associations suggest that Vietnam optimize its investment policies, improve risk sharing and government support mechanisms, refine investment and financing plans, and accurately connect with professional investment institutions and strategic investors. A well-developed railway network can reduce logistics costs, optimize transportation structure, reduce carbon emissions, help Vietnam connect regional networks, and solidify the foundation for green development and economic upgrading.Editor/Min Jing