HANOI – In a significant policy move aimed at securing sustainable funding for infrastructure maintenance and expansion, Vietnam's transport authorities have put forward a new proposal to begin collecting tolls on 18 sections of the crucial North-South Expressway. According to the proposal, the tolls would be implemented starting from January 2026.
The plan specifically targets expressway sections that have been developed using the state budget. This marks a strategic shift, as the government seeks to create a revenue stream to cover the substantial costs of operation, management, and repair for its flagship infrastructure projects.
Details of the Proposed Toll Structure
Under the new proposal, the toll fees for passenger vehicles are expected to range from VND 900 to VND 1,300 per kilometer. At current exchange rates, this is equivalent to approximately 3.6 to 5.2 US cents per kilometer. The specific rate would likely vary depending on the section of the expressway and the vehicle type.
This tolling model is intended to ensure that the expressways can self-finance their upkeep, reducing the long-term burden on the state budget and allowing for further investment in the nation's transport network. The revenue generated will be crucial for maintaining the quality and safety standards of these modern highways.
A Strategic Shift for State-Funded Projects
The North-South Expressway is the backbone of Vietnam's road system, a monumental project designed to connect the country's major economic hubs and facilitate faster, more efficient transport of goods and people. While many sections have been developed under a Build-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model involving private investors who collect tolls to recoup their investment, the 18 sections in this proposal were funded directly by the state.
The introduction of tolls on these state-funded routes reflects a broader strategy to create a user-pays system for high-quality infrastructure, aligning Vietnam with common international practices. Proponents argue that this model is fairer, as the costs of maintenance are borne by those who directly benefit from the improved road network, rather than by all taxpayers.
Potential Economic and Social Impacts
The proposal is expected to be a topic of significant public and industry discussion in the coming months. For the logistics and transportation sectors, the introduction of tolls will translate to higher operating costs, which could potentially impact the price of goods and services nationwide.
For individual drivers, it represents a new cost for using the faster and safer expressway system compared to the older, toll-free national highways. The government will likely need to balance the necessity of revenue generation with the economic impact on citizens and businesses.
The final decision on the toll rates and implementation will be subject to further review and approval from relevant government agencies. However, the proposal signals a clear direction for the future of infrastructure financing in Vietnam, paving the way for a more self-sustaining and modern transportation network.
