Viet Nam is accelerating plans to begin construction on its North-South high-speed railway in 2026, a year ahead of schedule, following an order from Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính to fast-track all necessary procedures.
The massive project, approved by the National Assembly in late 2024, is estimated to cost around VND1.7 quadrillion (US$67 billion) and will stretch 1,541 kilometers from Hà Nội to Hồ Chí Minh City, with 23 passenger stations and 5 freight stations designed for speeds of up to 350 km/h.
In addition to this flagship rail line, the government also plans to begin construction on the Lào Cai–Hà Nội–Lạng Sơn railway by December 2025, strengthening connections between the capital and provinces near the Chinese border.
Viet Nam is also working on agreements for another major northern line from Lào Cai to Hải Phòng via Hà Nội, while both Hà Nội and Hồ Chí Minh City have been instructed to review funding plans and loan options for expanding their metro systems.
