CaliToday (16/9/2025): In a significant move to bolster national infrastructure, Vietnam's Ministry of Construction has put forward a large-scale investment proposal valued at over 152 trillion Vietnamese Dong (approximately US$6.3 billion) to expand and upgrade 18 critical sections of the North-South Expressway.
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| The Vung Ang - Bung Expressway passes through Quang Tri province. Photo: Dac Thanh |
The proposal aims to address growing traffic demands and enhance the logistical capacity of the country's most vital transportation artery. The North-South Expressway is the backbone of Vietnam's road network, connecting the political hub of Hanoi in the north with the economic powerhouse of Ho Chi Minh City in the south, and linking numerous key economic zones, industrial parks, and seaports along its route.
Addressing a Strategic Need
The primary driver behind the proposal is the increasing strain on the current expressway infrastructure. Many existing sections, particularly those built in earlier phases, are struggling to cope with the rising volume of passenger and freight traffic. This congestion often leads to delays, increased transportation costs for businesses, and safety concerns.
The proposed expansion focuses on widening these 18 segments, which are deemed most critical for alleviating bottlenecks. The project would likely involve adding more lanes in each direction, upgrading road surfaces, and modernizing traffic management systems to ensure smoother, faster, and safer transit.
Key Objectives of the Project:
Boost Economic Connectivity: By improving the flow of goods between manufacturing centers and ports, the expansion will strengthen national supply chains and support Vietnam's export-oriented economy.
Reduce Traffic Congestion: Widening the expressway will directly tackle traffic jams, significantly cutting down travel times for both commercial and private vehicles.
Enhance National Security and Mobility: A robust expressway system is crucial for ensuring rapid mobility and connectivity across the length of the country.
Spur Regional Development: Improved transportation links are expected to attract further investment to provinces along the expressway, promoting balanced economic growth.
A Vision for Future Growth
This ambitious plan is a key component of Vietnam's broader strategy to modernize its infrastructure to meet the demands of a rapidly growing economy. The government has prioritized infrastructure development as a cornerstone for achieving its long-term socio-economic goals.
The Ministry of Construction's proposal will now be submitted to the government and relevant agencies for review and approval. If greenlit, this massive undertaking will represent one of the most significant infrastructure projects in Vietnam in the coming years, underscoring the nation's commitment to building a modern, efficient, and interconnected transportation network to fuel its future.
