Vietnam Sets Strategic Priority on Railway Connectivity with China and Europe
Vietnam plans to strengthen its railway network by prioritizing three major cross-border corridors that link to China and extend to Europe. These projects aim to boost international trade, streamline logistics, and enhance economic integration. The focus revolves around connecting key border gateways and expanding multimodal transportation infrastructure.
Developing New Railway Routes to Interconnect with China’s Network
The Vietnamese Ministry of Construction has outlined an ambitious plan for 2021-2030, emphasizing the construction of three pivotal railway lines that will interface with China’s extensive rail system. These lines include Hanoi-Dong Dang, Lao Cai-Hanoi-Hai Phong, and Hai Phong-Ha Long-Mong Cai. Expanding these routes aims to establish seamless border crossings at Huu Nghi, Lao Cai, and Mong Cai, facilitating smoother freight and passenger movement between the two nations.
Lao Cai-Hanoi-Hai Phong Line to Cover 363 Kilometers with Double Tracks
The Lao Cai-Hanoi-Hai Phong corridor stands out as a centerpiece of this expansion. Spanning approximately 363 kilometers, this line will feature double tracks utilizing the 1,435 mm standard gauge, suitable for high-speed freight and passenger services. It will connect Lao Cai at the Vietnam-China border to Hai Phong’s Nam Hai Phong station, passing through vital economic zones. The project aims for construction to commence by late 2025, with detailed feasibility studies underway.
The Hanoi-Dong Dang Line to Include 11 Stations and Cost-Effective Infrastructure
The Hanoi-Dong Dang route begins at the Bang Tuong Dong station in China and terminates at Gia Lam in Hanoi. It spans approximately 146 kilometers across Lang Son and Bac Ninh provinces and includes 11 stations. The project plans to incorporate key features, such as 31 kilometers of bridges and 9 kilometers of tunnels, to optimize speed and connectivity. This line intends to facilitate rapid transit of passengers and freight, strengthening border trade links.
Mong Cai Connection to Key Ports and Economic Zones
The third corridor, Hai Phong-Ha Long-Mong Cai, will extend from China’s Dongxing to Vietnam’s Nam Hai Phong. Covering about 174 kilometers, this line will feature 76 kilometers of bridges and over 8 kilometers of tunnels, passing through Quang Ninh and Hai Phong. It aims to integrate with the Lao Cai-Hanoi-Hai Phong corridor, creating a comprehensive network for intra-regional transportation and international freight movement.
Targeted Completion and Strategic Impact by 2026
Vietnam and China coordinate closely to finalize project designs and secure funding. Authorities aim to complete these railway lines by 2026, ensuring they become operational hubs for freight exchange. Once completed, these corridors will establish reliable rail links connecting Vietnam to ASEAN countries, Central Asia, and Europe—expanding the country’s logistics capacity and offering new routes for intercontinental freight.
Boosting Cross-Border Rail Freight Volumes and Trade Efficiency
According to Vietnamese Railways, the rail freight volume between Vietnam and China surged past 1 million tons in 2025, reflecting a 30% annual increase. Despite this growth, rail’s share of bilateral trade remains limited, constituting roughly 5% of total trade at the Dong Dang border crossing. Enhancing these railway corridors will be critical to increasing the modal share, reducing logistics costs, and accelerating trade flows, especially through major ports like Hai Phong.
Conclusion: A Pivotal Step for Vietnam’s Global Trade Integration
By linking strategically with Chinese rail infrastructure and extending toward European markets, Vietnam aims to transform its transportation landscape. The new corridors will not only facilitate faster, more efficient freight transit but also position Vietnam as a key hub in Eurasian logistics networks, opening avenues for broader economic growth and regional connectivity.
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