Breakthrough infrastructure drives rapid growth

A development milestone

Entering 2026, Vietnam has completed and connected more than 3,000 kilometers of the North–South Expressway, comprising 23 component projects implemented during the 2021–2025 period. This pace of execution is widely regarded as unprecedented in the country’s history of transport infrastructure development.

The achievement reflects the coordinated efforts of the entire political system, the adoption of special mechanisms by the National Assembly and the Government, and the marked growth in capacity among domestic contractors. The establishment of a continuous expressway axis stretching from Cao Bang to Ca Mau Cape represents one of the fastest development phases in Vietnam’s construction sector. It also advances the modernization and integration of the national expressway network, laying the groundwork for achieving the target of 5,000 kilometers of expressways by 2030 under the 2021–2030 Socio-Economic Development Strategy.

Mr. Pham Van Khoi, Chairman and CEO of Phuong Thanh Transport Construction Investment JSC, stated that the nearly 3,000 kilometers of expressways are the result of consistent direction from the Party and State, oversight by the National Assembly, decisive leadership from the Government and the Prime Minister, and close coordination among ministries, sectors, and local authorities in decentralization and contractor capacity assurance.

According to him, the new approach has enabled enterprises to mobilize modern equipment and implement large-scale construction, replacing the previously fragmented model. Intensive construction schedules—operating in “three shifts, four crews,” working through harsh weather conditions—have accelerated progress and ensured timely resolution of emerging challenges.

Meanwhile, Mr. Tran Chung, Chairman of the Vietnam Association of Road Traffic Works Investors, noted that completing more than 3,000 kilometers of expressways demonstrates significant progress in both policy mechanisms and the execution capacity of domestic contractors, particularly in technological investment, equipment upgrades, and the application of innovative solutions in place of outdated technologies.

Leaders of localities hosting expressway segments emphasized that a decisive factor in the projects’ success was the shortened timeframe for site clearance and the allocation of material mines under special mechanisms. Bottlenecks were addressed through specific resolutions and close supervision by the Ministry of Construction.

Beyond reducing travel time, the completion of the expressway network strengthens regional connectivity, stimulates economic development, and improves living standards for citizens.

Expanding long-term growth potential

Alongside the completion of the North–South Expressway, a total of 234 key infrastructure projects nationwide were simultaneously launched or inaugurated ahead of 2026, with a combined investment of over VND 3.4 quadrillion (approximately US$135 billion). Notably, private capital accounts for 82% of the total, reflecting the effectiveness of policies promoting private-sector development under Resolution No. 68 of the Politburo and the determination to build a sustainable development foundation.

These projects not only enhance transport connectivity but also stimulate public investment, create employment opportunities, and contribute to GDP growth.

Mr. Tran Hong Minh, Minister of Ministry of Construction, emphasized that developing synchronized and modern infrastructure is a central pillar for improving national competitiveness, strengthening regional linkages, and expanding long-term growth potential. The simultaneous rollout of major projects demonstrates a results-oriented approach, with progress and efficiency serving as key benchmarks in implementing major policy directions, contributing to the development goals set out at the 14th National Party Congress.

Hai Phong News

Hai Phong News