Vietnam's Construction Minister and localities accelerate plans for three key expressways

The meeting brought together leaders from provincial governments and key stakeholders to review progress and reinforce commitments to accelerate infrastructure development in line with national goals.

A four-lane section of the Ha Noi – Thai Nguyen Expressway, currently in use and slated for further upgrades.

Major Boost to National Expressway Network

According to the Ministry of Construction, Vietnam currently has 2,268 kilometers of expressways in operation and 1,833 kilometers under construction. Nearly 1,000 kilometers are scheduled for completion by the end of 2025, advancing the country toward its targets of 3,000 kilometers of expressways by 2025 and 5,000 kilometers by 2030.

Upgrading the Ha Noi – Thai Nguyen – Cho Moi Route

Minister Tran Hong Minh emphasized the importance of upgrading and expanding the Ha Noi – Thai Nguyen – Cho Moi expressway under the public-private partnership (PPP) model. Local governments, including Ha Noi, Bac Ninh, and Thai Nguyen, have expressed consensus on the necessity and methodology of the investment. The People’s Committees of the involved provinces were instructed to review and formally endorse the Thai Nguyen Provincial People’s Committee as the lead governing body for the project. This will streamline project management and ensure uniformity in planning and execution.

The Minister also called for technical assessments to ensure that planned investments align with existing infrastructure and do not overlap with other key projects, such as the proposed expressway linking Gia Binh Airport to Ha Noi.

Advancing the Thai Nguyen – Cao Bang Expressway

For the Thai Nguyen – Cao Bang route, which traverses complex mountainous and forested terrain, provincial authorities have agreed to appoint the Cao Bang Provincial People’s Committee as the managing unit.

Minister Minh directed both Thai Nguyen and Cao Bang to collaborate closely in drafting the pre-feasibility study report, ensuring full compliance with legal and regulatory frameworks. The Minister also underscored the importance of classifying the project as nationally significant under the Law on Public Investment, enabling faster approval and streamlined procedures.

Integrating Thai Nguyen – Lang Son into provincial planning

Regarding the Thai Nguyen – Lang Son expressway, the Minister urged the People’s Committees of both provinces to incorporate the route into their provincial planning documents. He also called on the localities to explore lawful funding mechanisms to support the development.

"The Ministry of Construction will continue to guide and coordinate with local authorities throughout the project lifecycle," Minister Minh affirmed.

Strategic vision for regional connectivity

The three expressways are expected to play a pivotal role in enhancing inter-provincial connectivity, promoting trade, and fostering socioeconomic development in Northern Vietnam. Their completion will strengthen the region’s transport infrastructure and contribute to broader national development objectives.

Hải Ninh