The Vietnam North–South express railway is a proposed high-speed railway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The new railway will be a double-tracked standard-gauge (1,435 mm) electric railway with a track length of 1,570 km. This will replace the current metre-gauge North–South railway. The preferred top speed is 350 km/h.
The current Hanoi – Ho Chi Minh City railway is a single-track metre-gauge railway using diesel locomotives. The fastest service on the 1,726 km track takes 29 hrs, 30 mins at an average speed of 58.5 km/h. This railway was completed in 1936 (known then as the Transindochinois Railway), and the journey took 40 hours. This is the same speed of some local services that still operate today.
If the express railway is built with a speed of 350 km/h, the travel time between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City would be reduced to five hours and 20 minutes.
The Hanoi station will be at Ngoc Hoi, and the Ho Chi Minh City station will be at Thu Thiem.
Planning History
The new express railway was first officially proposed in 2007, with construction to begin in 2010. The plan was cancelled in 2010, only to be revived again in 2012.
A report un 2013 concluded that it would be cheaper to build a new one than rehabilitate the old line.
Since then there have been annual announcements of a new feasibility study that will be submitted for consideration by the National Assembly.
In August 2020 the Ministry of Transport (MoT) was in the preparation process stage, with an estimated investment of US$58.7 billion.
Proposed Construction Timeline
The railway is proposed to be built in stages, with the first phase beginning with Hanoi – Vinh and Ho Chi Minh City – Nha Trang between 2020 – 2032.
The second phase between 2030 – 2045 will complete the remaining sections.
Train Speed
The train speed of the North–South express railway is not official, but the preferred speed is 350 km/h. A high-speed railway like the Shinkansen (which operates at 320 km/h) would be more expensive to build than a railway that can run at up to 200 km/h (such as the Boten-Vientiane railway in Laos).
Read more about the proposed speeds of the North-South Express Railway.
North–South Route
The line will follow a similar route to the current line along the coastal regions. The route will be shorter though due to the new line taking a straighter route compared to the old at-grade line.
Most of the current line is at ground level, causing regular accidents due to the many level crossings across the country. The new line will be separated from traffic, with sixty percent of the tracks on viaducts, 10 percent underground and 30 percent at ground level.
[No more Hanoi Train Street when trains are separated from traffic.]
The route and train speeds aren’t official yet, so this page will be updated when they become known.
News Archive
2024
‘Spirit of self-reliance’ to lay tracks for Vietnam’s first high-speed railway: official – [02/10/24]
“Vietnam will mainly rely on itself in building the nation’s first transnational high-speed railway, minimizing foreign strings attached, says Deputy Minister of Transport Nguyen Danh Huy.”
How do Vietnam’s proposed high-speed rail fares compare with Asian peers? – [02/10/24]
Vietnam high-speed railway project appraisal report ready this week – [02/10/24]
“An appraisal report for the North-South high-speed railway pre-feasibility study will be completed before this Saturday by the Ministry of Planning and Investment for submission to the National Assembly later in the month.”
Vietnam to build north-south high-speed railway without foreign loans or technology – [01/10/24]
Realizing the North-South high-speed railwayc— [01/10/24]
“The “inferiority” of existing railways compared to other modes of transport requires a revolution to modernize the national railway system.”
Feasibility report for North-South high-speed rail investment project needs urgent completion – [01/10/24]
“The Ministry of Transport is expected to complete the feasibility report for submission to the Government by October 7 this year.”
Why is it necessary to build high-speed railway soon? – [01/10/24]
“Based on national financial capacity, technical factors and the country’s actual needs, investment in high-speed railways should be implemented soon.”
Vietnam’s high-speed rail fares set at 75% of flight tickets – [29/09/24]
Prioritising resources for the North-South high speed railway : Party – [26/09/24]
“The high speed line is a crucial accelerator for the national economy, said Deputy Prime Minister Trần Hồng Hà.”
High-speed railway may increase GDP 1% – [25/09/24]
“The Party Politburo has agreed to invest in a high-speed railway on the North-South axis. The project is expected to boost Vietnam’s economic growth.”
$67 bln trans-Vietnam high-speed railway likely to break ground in 2027 – [25/09/24]
US$67 billion proposed for North-South high-speed rail line – [25/09/24]
Vietnam plans to invest in over-1,500km North-South high-speed railway – [25/09/24]
“The Politburo has recently agreed to seek opinions of the Party Central Committee regarding the investment policy for a North-South high-speed railway before the Government submits it to the National Assembly at its 8th session.”
Vietnam top decision-makers greenlight much awaited high-speed railway – [19/09/24]
Politburo: North-South high-speed railway project highly necessary – [19/09/24]
“The Politburo has concluded that the North-South high-speed railway project is highly important and highly necessary infrastructure work.”
North-South high-speed railway project critical: Politburo – [18/09/24]
“Recognising the strategic importance of the project, the Politburo agreed to seek the Party Central Committee’s approval of the investment policy before the Government presents it to the 15th National Assembly at its upcoming 8th session.”
North-South high-speed railway project critical: Politburo – [18/09/24]
“Currently, the Ministry of Transport is proposing to have a North-South high-speed rail with designed speed of 350km/h, which would transport both passengers and freight, whereas the current rail lines will just carry goods.”
China construction company offers to build Vietnam high-speed railroad – [28/08/24]
Positive signs for implementing North-South high-speed railway project – [14/08/24]
“After several rounds of feedback from ministries, sectors, and experts, the Ministry of Transport is finalising the proposal for the construction of the North-South high-speed railway, as the funding plan for the project has shown positive signs, Deputy Minister of Transport Nguyen Danh Huy has said.”
Vietnam gov’t agrees on passenger orientation for transnational high-speed rail route – [25/07/24]
“The Vietnamese government has agreed in-principle that the transnational high-speed railway route being planned in the country will be geared primarily for passenger transportation.”
Prime Minister approves comprehensive high-speed rail plan for Vietnam – [25/07/24]
“The Vietnamese government has given the green light to a comprehensive high-speed rail project spanning 1,541 km, aiming to connect the northern and southern regions of the country.”
Korean-style New City Development Model Will Be Applied to Vietnam – [17/07/24]
“In a separate meeting on the same day, Minister Park expressed Korea’s intention to participate in the $57.3 billion worth North-South high-speed railway project between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City to Deputy Minister of Transport Nguyen Xuan Sang. This project is a significant part of Vietnam’s infrastructure development plan, aiming to enhance connectivity and economic growth.”
Gov’t targets to complete 1,541km of high-speed railway by 2035 – [12/07/24]
“By 2025, all procedures to approve the investment policy of the north-south high-speed railway project must be completed.”
North-south high-speed railway to be completed by 2035 – [12/07/24]
“The Ministry of Transport and associated project partners have been informed that the completion of the north-south high-speed railway will be expected by 2035.”
PM urges thorough study for north-south railway project – [11/07/24]
“Chairing a meeting on Thursday to discuss the investment policy for the north-south high-speed railway project, the PM Chính stressed the need for innovative and strategic approaches, aiming to complete the 1,541km of high-speed railway within ten years.”
Việt Nam seeks railway project cooperation with China – [05/07/24]
“Việt Nam is expecting to start a North-South high-speed railway project, which spans over 1,500km, in partnership with China in 2026-27, according to Minister of Transport Nguyễn Văn Thắng.”
PM pushes for $2bil. investment in VN high-speed rail during South Korea visit – [03/07/24]
“Furthermore, Prime Minister Chinh requested the acceleration of $2 billion loans through the Economic Development Promotion Facility (EDPF) and non-binding conditions for $2 billion loans from the Economic Development Cooperation Fund (EDCF) to develop strategic infrastructure, including high-speed rail.”
Vietnam to start work on high-speed rail within next 3 years: transport minister – [25/06/24]
“Work on a 1,500-kilometer high-speed rail link between the northern and southern regions will start in 2026 or 2027, Minister of Transport Nguyen Van Thang has said.”
Japan shows interest in Vietnam’s US$70 bln North-South express railway – [11/06/24]
“Japanese Ambassador to Vietnam Ito Naoki during his recent meeting with the leadership of the Ministry of Transport (MoT) in Hanoi said Japan shows its keen interest in Vietnam’s North-South express railway project worth approximately US$70 billion.”
Electrification to be sustainable approach to Vietnam’s rail modernization – [21/05/24]
“Vietnam’s plans to introduce high-speed rail lines must be supported by electrification, said RMIT logistics and supply chain management senior lecturer Dr Majo George.”
Research on optimal investment options for North-South high-speed railway – [10/04/24]
Vietnam seeking to learn from China with high-speed rail plan – [31/03/24]
Transport Ministry supports North-South Railway project with speed of 350km/h – [29/03/24]
“The Ministry of Transport (MOT) wants to build a new North-South Railway with a designed capacity of 350 kilometers per hour for passenger transport, and cargo transport when necessary. The current railway will be used for cargo transport only.”
Government mulls all-passenger role for proposed high-speed rail – [27/03/24]
“The Ministry of Transport wants the proposed 350 kph high-speed rail to be used for passenger transport, leaving the existing line to exclusively carry freight.”
High-speed train may add 1 ppt to Vietnam’s annual GDP growth: ministry – [27/03/24]
Deputy PM orders unified standards and completion of investment plan for high-speed rail lines – [26/03/24]
“Deputy Prime Minister Trần Hồng Hà stressed the importance of completing the investment plan for high-speed rail lines during the second meeting of the Steering Committee for the Construction and Implementation of the proposal for investing in high-speed rail lines on the North-South axis and other vital national railway projects.”
S Korea can share high-speed railway technology with Vietnam: official – [20/03/24]
“South Korea is willing to facilitate the trans-Vietnam high-speed railway project by sharing relevant expertise and experience, said Korea National Railway chairman Lee Seong-hae.”
The Ministry of Transport requires synchronous connection of the railway station at Long Thanh International Airport – [18/03/24]
“Specifically, the high-speed railway on the North-South axis goes underground in the middle along the main axis of Long Thanh International Airport, with 1 station (Long Thanh station) located between the T1 and T2 station clusters. TXNUMX.”
Ministry asked for connectivity between railway stations, Long Thanh Airport – [14/03/24]
“The north-south high-speed railway project’s pre-feasibility study report is completing. The project includes a passenger station located between Terminals 1 and 2 in the airport.”
Japan willing to fund trans-Vietnam high-speed railway: minister – [12/03/24]
Vietnam aims to mobilize foreign capital for 30% of $67 bln high-speed railway – [11/03/24]
“Minister Phoc made the statement at a meeting with Mizuho, a leading bank in Japan, as part of his visit to the East Asia nation. Vietnam is also looking to mobilize domestic sources for 70% of the $67-billion project, the minister added.
The Vietnamese Ministry of Finance plans to cooperate with its Japanese counterparts, diplomats and the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) on the task, Phoc noted.”
North-South high-speed railway to kick off in 2027, needs 300,000 workers – [06/03/24]
“The North-South high-speed railway is expected to create 263,700-332,300 jobs in the construction period and employ 14,000 workers after its operation.”
North-South high-speed railway project requires huge human resources – [05/03/24]
“Human resources are one of the key factors determining the success of the investment, construction and operation of the North-South high-speed railway project.”
Bullet train expected to create breakthroughs for domestic railway sector – [03/03/24]
“The 140-year-old railway, considered outdated in Vietnam, will undergo the most significant infrastructure transformation in decades, as the North-South high-speed railway project will be submitted to the Politburo in March, and the National Assembly within this year.”
Siemens offers locomotives for Vietnam’s highspeed railway – [27/02/24]
Breakthrough North-South high-speed railway – [21/02/24]
“Vietnam’s 140-year-old, stagnant and backward railway is facing the opportunity for the biggest infrastructure change in the past few decades when the North-South high-speed railway project will be submitted to the Ministry by the Standing Government. Politic in March and report to the National Assembly in 3.”
Path to modern north-south hi-speed railway construction outlined – [20/02/24]
“The building of the north-south hi-speed rail line must ensure modern, cohesive, and sustainable elements in line with the Politburo’s guideline as outlined in Conclusion No. 49-KL/TW, permanent Government members made the conclusion in a document issued by the Government Office on February 19.”
North-South express railway line project to be submitted to Politburo in March – [20/02/24]
“The Government’s standing members at a recent meeting assigned the MoT to continue to collect opinions from experts, scientists, and experienced officials in the railway industry to choose an optimal solution for submission to the Political Bureau in March.”
Transport ministry working to secure approval of high-speed North-South railway in 2024 – [08/02/24]
“The Ministry of Transport (MoT) is striving to submit a proposal to authorized agencies this year on approving the North-South high-speed railway project.”
North-south high-speed railway to require 13,800 staff – [06/02/24]
“In a document on managing and utilizing the railway submitted to the Ministry of Transport, the company said 8.98 people for every kilometer of the railway on average would be needed to operate it.”
2023
Viet Nam seeks Japan’s ODA for North-South high-speed railway project – [16/12/23]
“Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh held summit meeting with his Japanese counterpart Kishida Fumio in Tokyo, Japan, on December 16.”
Ministry to start construction on two priority sections of north-south high speed railway before 2030 – [16/12/23]
“The Ministry of Transport (MoT) will complete the north-south high speed railway project’s pre-feasibility study report and strive to start construction of two priority sections before 2030.”
Vietnam ready to pour over $70bn into building cross-country high-speed railway – [11/12/23]
“Expediting this investment is crucial for maximizing the potential benefits, as the current national rail network in Vietnam lags behind those of neighboring countries in Southeast Asia, experts said.”
High-speed rail connection helps position Vietnam as a regional logistics hub: experts – [10/12/23]
Vietnam carefully reviewing 3 scenarios for North-South high-speed railway – [09/12/23]
North-south high speed train project needs thorough analysis and evaluation: experts – [06/12/23]
Vietnam gov’t mulls special package for high-speed railway – [05/12/23]
“The Vietnamese government is considering a package of special mechanisms for the construction of a colossal high-speed railway that will run the length of the country.”
Investing in the North-South high-speed railway truly becomes the “backbone” axis. – [05/12/23]
Deputy Prime Minister: ‘High-speed railway route needs to be the straightest’ – [04/12/23]
“Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha asked the agency to research the use of bridges and tunnels to direct the North-South high-speed railway route in the straightest way, ensuring flood drainage.”
Northern high-speed railway – [03/12/23]
“The old, outdated railway needs to be “transformed””
High-speed rail connection to elevate Vietnam’s economy – [01/12/23]
“Vietnam is standing on the brink of a transformative breakthrough – the inception of a high-speed train network that bridges the economic divide between the northern and southern regions, writes Dr. Majo George, senior lecturer of logistics and supply chain management at the Business School of RMIT University Vietnam.”
North-South high-speed railway project set to follow third scenario – [27/11/23]
“For the third scenario, the project is designed as a double-track railway with a gauge of 1,435 mm and a speed of 350 kilometers an hour serving passenger and cargo trains.”
Three investment scenarios to build the North-South high-speed railway – [27/11/23]
North-South high-speed railway project expected to kick off by 2030 – [22/11/23]
“The approval of the North-South high-speed railway project is expected by 2025 and construction on the priority routes of Hanoi – Vinh and HCM City – Nha Trang is expected to kick off prior to 2030.”
North-South railway, a breakthrough not only in economics – [16/11/23]
“By 2025, complete approval of investment policy for the North – South high-speed railway project and start construction before 2030 with priority routes being Hanoi – Vinh and Ho Chi Minh City – Nha Trang.”
Japan pledges support for multi-billion-dollar high-speed rail project – [02/11/23]
Vietnam aims to operate high-speed railways by 2045 – [01/11/23]
Construction of North-South high-speed rail route to begin by 2030 – [01/11/23]
Government launches action plan on railway transport development – [01/11/23]
“The Government has issued Resolution No 178/NQ-CP on an action plan for implementing the Politburo’s Conclusion No 49-KL/TW on the development orientation of Vietnam’s railway transport to 2030 with a vision towards 2045.”
Govt seeks NA approval of resources to develop high-speed railways – [24/10/23]
“Under the Prime Minister’s authorization, Minister of Transport Nguyen Van Thang signed the Government’s report to the NA on the implementation of railway transport development policies and use of the State budget to develop these projects.”
Chinese firms express interest in Vietnam’s North-South high-speed rail project – [20/10/23]
No more delays to kicking off North-South high-speed railway: expert – [14/10/23]
“Vietnam should not further postpone the development of the North-South high-speed railway, a leading veteran expert has said.”
Vietnam should invest in new North-South high-speed railways instead of renovating old tracks – [13/10/23]
“According to experts, experience in developing high-speed railways in other countries shows that we should invest in new, modern lines instead of renovating and using old infrastructure.”
Central station for North-South express railway proposed in Thu Thiem – [09/10/23]
“The HCMC Department of Transport has proposed developing a central station for the North-South high-speed railway in Thu Thiem and a rail link between Thu Thiem and Long Thanh in Dong Nai Province.”
[A map shows the direction of a section of the North-South high-speed railway running through HCMC – Photo: Department of Transport.]
Vietnam to speed up US$59-billion high-speed train project – [04/10/23]
“Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has issued a decision to create a Steering Committee tasked with overseeing the development and execution of the investment policy project for the high-speed railway on the North-South axis, estimated at US$58.7 billion, and other major national railway initiatives.”
Agree to use Ngoc Hoi station as the starting point of the North-South high-speed railway – [14/09/23]
PM seeks Japan’s assistance in developing North-South hi-speed railways – [06/09/23]
Long-term vision vital for North-South express railway: expert – [30/08/23]
“For mega works like the North-South Express Railway, the country should focus its resources, ensure long-term effectiveness, and achieve multiple goals, said Prof. Dr. Nguyen Mai, chairman of Vietnam’s Association of Foreign Invested Enterprises (VAFIE).”
Vietnam aims to have north-south high-speed rail plan approved in 2025 – [30/07/23]
Vietnam to set up panel to steer high-speed railway in right direction – [27/07/23]
North-South express railway project could include freight transport function – [19/05/23]
Construction of north-south express railway should to shortened to 16 years: state appraisal council – [02/05/23]
Vietnamese Gov’t aims to approve North-South express railway project by 2025 – [14/04/23]
“The move was part of a decision signed by Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha on measures to implement the national railway plan for 2021-2030, with a vision for 2050.”
Solutions needed on high-speed railway – [04/04/23]
“Embracing a high-speed railway venture with mixed use of passenger and freight trains is deemed a viable option to form the backbone of the north-south economic corridor, a State Appraisal Council meeting has heard.”
Trans-Vietnam high-speed railway work to start by 2030 – [01/03/23]
“The Party’s highest decision-making body said in a new conclusion that by 2025, related units must complete all procedures to approve the investment policy of the north-south high-speed railway project so that construction can start before 2030.”
Spain to pour funds into high-speed rail in Vietnam – [24/02/23]
“Following the World Bank, Spanish and Japanese investors are also setting their sights on high-speed railways in Vietnam, including the north-south high-speed project.”
Vietnam seeks express railway cooperation with Spain – [23/02/23]
PM calls for focus on developing railroad network – [27/01/23]
“Its first phase, to be completed before 2030, will see the construction of two segments: Hanoi-Vinh and Ho Chi Minh City-Nha Trang.”
Vietnam again requests aid from Japan for high-speed railway – [14/01/23]
Vietnam requests aid from Japan for mega railway, refinery projects – [14/01/23]
“Vietnam has asked Japan for support in building a high-speed railway that runs along the country’s length, the government said late on Friday.”
2022
Localizing construction of high-speed railways contributes to growth – [08/12/22]
“Building a high-speed railway (250km/h) will facilitate the development of the entire railway industry, experts said.”
VN considering feasibility of North-South high-speed rail project – [06/12/22]
“Minister of Transport Nguyen Van Thang proposed that World Bank (WB) help Vietnam find suitable partners for the country’s North-South high-speed rail project. This proposal was made in a working session with WB’s National Director in Vietnam at the beginning of this December.”
$62 billion needed to build North-South high-speed railway – [20/11/22]
“In order to have investment capital for the North-South high-speed railway, Vietnam needs to use capital from the state budget and private sources, and exploit the land area in station areas where the railway would pass through.”
Experts divided on 250-kph transnational railroad – [09/11/22]
Trans-Vietnam high speed railroad proposed at $61.67 billion – [08/11/22]
“As proposed by a joint-venture of four companies chosen as consultant for the north-south high speed railway, the project will cost $61.67 billion and be built in three phases.”
Vietnam considers high-speed rail line – [07/11/22]
“The Ministry of Planning and Investment has thrown its weight behind a North-South express railway with a maximum speed of 180-250 km per hour as proposed by the Ministry of Transport.”
Government mulls 250 kph transnational railway – [07/11/22]
Raft of options still to pore over for high-speed railway – [04/11/22]
“Choices on innovative solutions, railway speed, and capital mobilisation for the North-South high-speed railway project must better accommodate Vietnam’s circumstances.”
Lower speed proposed for North-South Railway project over efficiency concerns – [28/10/22]
“A design speed of 250 kph for trains carrying both passengers and cargo would help ensure revenues for the giant project, the consultant told a workshop Wednesday on the project’s pre-feasibility study, chaired by Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung.”
Second chance here for high-speed rail – [09/09/22]
“The Politburo will decide on the development of a North-South high-speed railway in September, which was previously turned down by the National Assembly in 2010.”
Vietnam’s high-speed railway is back on the agenda – [15/08/22]
North-South express railway to seek Politburo’s approval – [14/08/22]
The Ministry of Transport will submit to the Politburo for consideration an investment policy for the construction of a North-South express rail link, which would cost up to 58.71 billion USD, this September.
PM requests Japan’s help for north-south high speed railway – [22/07/22]
“Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh on Friday requested the Japan Bank for International Cooperation (JBIC) to support Vietnam in building a north-south high speed railway.”
2021
Vietnam to commence North-South express railway construction in 2028-2029 – [02/11/21]
Nine new railways expected to be developed by 2030 – [20/10/21]
“The Government has this month approved a plan to develop nine new railways with a total length of nearly 2,400 kilometers by 2030, including the North-South express railway project.”
High-speed railways and Vietnam’s options – [17/08/21]
Railway sector needs 10.4 bln USD to expand network in next decade – [19/07/21]
“Among the nine new routes, the top priority is given to the North-South high-speed railway project with a plan to build a double track railway of 1,435mm size, stretching over 1,545km.”
Ambitious railway development plan in Vietnam until 2030 – [12/06/21]
“Among the nine new routes, top priority is given to the North-South high-speed railway project, with plans to build the first two routes: Hanoi-Vinh and Nha Trang-Ho Chi Minh City.”
$65 bln master plan proposed for Vietnam traffic infrastructure – [20/04/21]
“A Transport Ministry agency has proposed spending VND1,000-1,500 trillion renovating road, rail, inland waterway, sea and air transport infrastructure from now until 2030.”
High-speed railway imperative for Việt Nam’s development – [08/04/21]
“Due to Việt Nam’s natural features and geography, the development of a high-speed railway is imperative and any delays will hinder socio-economic growth, Chairman of Vietnam Railways Vũ Anh Minh has said.”
Need for high-speed rail arguments continue unabated – [28/03/21]
“More than 10 years after they were first proposed, high-speed railroad plans remain mired in concerns and disagreement over speeds and cost.”
High-speed trains proposed to link Hanoi, HCMC with central region – [20/02/21]
“Two high-speed railroad routes between Hanoi and Vinh and HCMC and Nha Trang are expected to be operational by 2030.”
The North-South high-speed railway should be for both passengers and freight – [06/03/21]
In decline, what’s the future for Vietnam’s historic North-South railway? – [02/03/21]
“Vietnam’s North-South railway has remained much the same since it was first built 85 years ago, with the iconic line highlighting the halting nature of Vietnamese infrastructure projects as plans to modernise have gone without progress for more than a decade.”
2020
200 kph dual purpose railway better option for Vietnam – [05/11/20]
“A 200 kph rail route that can carry both passengers and cargo will benefit Vietnam more than a 320 kph passenger exclusive, an expert says.”
Vietnam’s high-speed railway and the profitability of “Shinkansen” [PDF] – [September 2020]
Report by Tomoo Kikuchi and Tomoyo Nakamura for Nanyang Technological University, Singapore.
Vietnam Politburo to review progress of US$59-billion North-South express railway – [11/08/20]
“Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc has tasked the Ministry of Transport (MoT) with reporting the progress of the preparation process for the North-South express railway project with an estimated investment of VND1,350 trillion (US$58.7 billion) to the Politburo, the country’s supreme decision-making body.”
NA deputies urge for quick implementation of North-South high-speed railway project – [12/06/20]
“At the ongoing ninth session of the 14th legislature on June 11, National Assembly deputies agreed that it is necessary to quickly deploy the North-South high-speed railway project to create a strong motivation for socio-economic development.”
Good funding urged for appraisal of North-South express railway’s pre-feasibility study – [02/06/20]
“Deputy Prime Minister Trinh Dinh Dung has ordered relevant ministries to allocate sufficient funding for the appraisal of the pre-feasibility study of the North-South high-speed railway project.”
2019
North-south express railway: how much money is enough? – [30/07/19]
Controversial express railway project to go before NA next year – [29/07/19]
“The Government will submit the controversial North-South high-speed railway project to the National Assembly (NA) in May next year.”
High speed railway requires careful thought – [26/07/19]
“Cao Sy Kiem, former director general of the State Bank of Viet Nam, talks to the newspaper Kinh tế & Đô thị on the need to think twice before making an official decision on the construction of the high speed North-South railway line.”
Vietnam should forget about high speed railway until 2030 – [25/07/19]
Opinion piece by Huynh The Du, lecturer at Fulbright University.
Vietnam could halve cost of north-south high-speed rail by reducing train speed: ministry – [09/07/19]
“The construction of a high-speed railway between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City could cost only US$26 billion, compared to the initial estimate of $59 billion, if its operational speed is reduced from 350km/h to 200km/h, according to the Vietnamese Ministry of Planning and Investment.”
Hyundai Group interested in investing in Vietnam’s colossal express railway – [31/05/19]
“South Korea multinational conglomerate Hyundai has expressed its interest in joining into the North-South bullet train project by providing comprehensive solutions from planning, capital mobilization, construction to operation and maintenance, VnExpress reported, citing a senior executive.”
Vietnam ‘dreams high’ with high-speed railway project – [04/05/20]
Pre-feasibility study of high-speed railway project submitted to PM – [28/02/19]
“Minister of Transport Nguyen Van The has submitted a pre-feasibility study report for a North-South high speed railway project to Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc.”
Vietnam revives $58bn high-speed rail project despite cost hurdle – [16/01/19]
“Vietnam has resurrected a high-speed rail project intended to link the country’s north and south, but the fiscal concerns that killed the proposal earlier this decade continue to haunt government efforts to fund the $58 billion plan.”
2018
Bullet train to connect Hanoi with HCMC in five hours – [25/12/18]
“Vietnam’s bullet train will cut travel time between Hanoi and Saigon to five hours from the current 24.
The railway project management board has submitted a pre-feasibility study to the Ministry of Transport, which quotes transport consultants’ estimate that if the train travels at 320 km/h, its running time would be from 5 hours 17 minutes to 6 hours 50 minutes depending on the number of stops.”
North-South express railway to cost over 58.7 billion USD – [14/11/18]
“Vietnam’s first express railway running from Hanoi to Ho Chi Minh City will cost around 58.7 billion USD, according to a pre-feasibility report announced at the Ministry of Transport’s meeting on November 12.”
Vietnam’s high-speed railway proposal – [19/09/18]
“Total cost estimated at $58.6 billion, with operations to begin in 2030.”
Vietnam sees high-speed train flying high – [16/09/18]
“The Ministry of Transport is working on a feasibility study for the high-speed railway project what would span 1,545 kilometers (960 miles) to connect Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City.”
Vietnam plays catch up with high speed rail – [02/09/18]
“Vietnam must be feeling high-speed-rail (HSR) envy as its neighbours move ahead with their respective HSR projects, propelled by China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). The irony is, Vietnam had already planned for HSR ahead of everyone else, back in 2007.”
Slow roll-out planned for Vietnam high-speed train – [02/04/18]
2017
National Assembly to vote on high-speed train in 2019 – [20/11/17]
“The National Assembly (NA) will decide the fate of a future high-speed railway in Viet Nam in 2019 after the transport ministry completes a project report, Prime Minister Nguyen Xuan Phuc said this week.”
Current status and strategy to development Viet Nam Railway by 2020, vision to 2050 [PDF] – [13/06/17]
2016
Vietnam revisits $56 billion plan for north-south express railway – [17/10/16]
“The Ministry of Transport is currently working on a feasibility study for an express railway across the country, said Deputy Prime Minister Trinh Dinh Dung, which he hopes will be submitted for parliamentary approval by 2018.”
Government to press ahead with high-speed railway project – [16/10/16]
Trans-Vietnam high-speed rail project to be resumed – [14/09/16]
“In 2018 the Ministry of Transport will submit the trans-Vietnam high-speed railway project to the government, and if it is approved, several segments will be put into use before 2030.”
2015
Decision No. 1468/QD-TTg – [24/08/15]
Approving the adjusted master plan on development of Vietnam’s railway transport through 2020, with a vision toward 2030).
Vietnam revives plan for multi-billion dollar north-south express railway – [04/06/15]
“Five years after lawmakers rejected a costly plan to build a north-south express railway, the transport ministry now wants to bring it back to the table.”
2014
Study for the formulation of high speed railway projects on Hanoi-Vinh and Ho Chi Minh-Nha Trang section [PDF] – [March 2014]
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Vietnam Railways.
2013
Construction of North – South express railway re-proposed – [30/10/13]
“In the reports to the Ministry of Transportation and the Office of Government, the Vietnam Railways Corporation has basically agreed with the recommendations of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) on the North-South railway.”
Study for the formulation of high speed railway projects on Hanoi-Vinh and Ho Chi Minh-Nha Trang section [PDF] – [June 2013]
Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) and Vietnam Railways.
2012
Vietnam revamps high-speed train project – [23/08/12]
“An ambitious but costly high-speed railways system connecting Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and other major towns in Vietnam has been modified by the government, trying to cut initial costs of $56 billion to $21.4 billion.”
2010
To be modern, Vietnam needs to build express railway – [24/11/10]
Transport Ministry moves on with two express railways – [30/10/10]
“Deputy Prime Minister Hoang Trung Hai has instructed the Ministry of Transport to set up a steering board to receive Japanese technical assistance for the Hanoi-Vinh and HCM City-Phan Thiet express railway projects.”
National Assembly rejects express railway project – [22/06/10]
“The National Assembly rejected the proposed US$56 billion Hanoi-HCM City express railway project on June 19, the last day of a month-long National Assembly sitting.”
Controversies over North-South express railway project – [25/05/10]
“The National Assembly Standing Committee has approved the North-South express railway project but they still wonder where Vietnam will find the $55 billion needed for this huge project. This project was still a controversy at the 7th National Assembly session, which opened on May 20 in Hanoi. VNNB summarises the development of this project.”
Vietnam to adopt Japan bullet train technology-paper – [15/04/10]
“Vietnam’s cabinet has approved a $55.9 billion project to build a high-speed rail line connecting Hanoi and Ho Chin Minh City using Japan’s bullet train technology, the Nikkei business daily reported on Thursday.”
2007
Rail boss: Vietnam to begin high-speed line in 2010 – [23/10/07]
“Vietnam plans to begin building a high-speed railway linking Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City in 2010, Vietnam’s railway chief said Tuesday at a symposium in Taipei.”
Vietnam to build high-speed rail with Japan aid – [06/02/07]
“Vietnam will build a high speed railway with aid from Japan at an estimated cost of $33 billion, a project that would cut travel time by two-thirds between Hanoi in the north and southern Ho Chi Minh City, the government said.”
PM agrees on express railway between Hanoi and HCMC – [06/02/07]
“Following the proposal of the Vietnam Railways Corporation (VRC) and recommendations from the Ministry of Transport and Ministry of Planning and Investment, the Prime Minister has approved a project to build an express railway between Hanoi and Hồ Chí Minh City and assigned the VRC to carry it out as a project investor.”
2006
The visit to Japan successful: says PM Nguyen Tan Dung – [22/10/06]
“Japan pledged to maintain and increase its official development assistance (ODA) to Vietnam to develop socio-economic infrastructure facilities. Top priority will be given to the Trans-national Express Railway Line project, the Trans-national Highway project and a project to develop infrastructure facilities in Hoa Lac High-Tech Zone to attract Japanese investors.”
2005
Vietnam needs US$38Bln to build North-South express railway by 2025 – [07/08/05]
“Vietnam will spend an estimated VND603.75 trillion (US$38 billion) building the first trans-national express railway linking the two major cities of Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City from now to 2025, according to the Construction Consultancy and Investment Co. under the Vietnam Railway Corp. (VRC), the project designer.”
“The Vietnam Railway Department expects to complete the pre-feasibility study of the project in 2010, build Hanoi-Vinh and Ho Chi Minh City-Nha Trang sections in the 2011-2015 period and complete the whole route in 2020.”
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