Vietnam accelerates the 400km Lao Cai‑Hanoi‑Hai Phong high‑speed rail, eyeing Chinese consortiums for construction. Learn the project timeline and milestones.
Vietnam is fast‑tracking a 400‑kilometre high‑speed railway that will connect Lao Cai, the capital Hanoi, and the coastal hub Hai Phong. The Ministry of Construction has tasked officials with selecting a consortium of four to five leading Chinese firms, in partnership with capable Vietnamese contractors, to deliver the project.
Why the Railway Matters
The Lao Cai‑Hanoi‑Hai Phong line will be the country’s longest single‑track railway, stretching about 393 km on the main line plus a 28‑km branch. Designed for speeds up to 160 km/h on the main segment, 120 km/h through Hanoi’s hub, and 80 km/h on secondary sections, it will carry both passengers and freight, slashing travel times and boosting regional trade.
Key Milestones and Deadlines
- Q1 2026: Finalise design and feasibility studies for the remaining 16 stations (Component 1).
- January 2026: Select a Chinese‑Vietnamese design‑consultancy team for Component 2.
- March 2026: Complete the joint feasibility report, enabling a bilateral appraisal with China.
- March 2026: Sign the cross‑border bridge‑railway agreement for the Lao Cai–Ha Khau Bắc (China) link.
- 2025‑2030: Overall project timeline, with full completion targeted for 2030.
Procurement Strategy
The ministry emphasises a “joint‑venture” approach: Chinese giants with extensive high‑speed rail experience will form a consortium with Vietnamese firms that meet technical and financial criteria. This model aims to transfer knowledge, ensure cost‑effectiveness, and guarantee adherence to the tight schedule.
Technical Highlights
The line will use standard gauge (1 435 mm) and feature advanced rail‑on‑road technology previously unseen in Vietnam. Design speeds are:
- 160 km/h – from the new Lao Cai station to Nam Hai Phong.
- 120 km/h – through the Hanoi inter‑city segment.
- 80 km/h – on remaining sections.
It will traverse six provinces and cities: Lao Cai, Phú Thọ, Hanoi, Bắc Ninh, Hưng Yên, and Hai Phong, linking major industrial zones, densely populated areas, and challenging terrain.
Investment and Funding
Estimated at over VND 203,000 billion (approximately USD 8.5 billion), the project will be funded through a public‑private partnership (PPP) model. Early feasibility studies are slated for 2025, with private investors expected to join once the framework is finalised.
Challenges and Coordination
Successful delivery hinges on swift land‑acquisition (GPMB) and coordination with local authorities. The Ministry of Construction has instructed project managers, consultants, and contractors to work closely with land‑release agencies to avoid delays. Relocation of existing utility infrastructure—electricity, water, telecom—must be addressed proactively.
Any postponement could jeopardise the synchronized timeline with China, potentially affecting the entire corridor’s commercial viability.
Looking Ahead
Vietnam’s high‑speed railway is a flagship infrastructure project, introducing cutting‑edge rail technology to the country. Beyond boosting travel efficiency, it is set to become a catalyst for economic development along the north‑west to north‑east corridor, reinforcing Vietnam’s role in regional logistics and cross‑border connectivity.