Vietnam Seaport Development
In response to the urgent need to mitigate climate change and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, Vietnam is on a transformative path to “green” its transportation sector. In May 2024, Vietnam issued Decision No. 442/QD-TTg to adjust the national seaport system development master plan for 2021-2030 towards these goals.
By 2030, Vietnam’s seaport system seeks to handle 1.25-1.5 billion tons of cargo (including 46-54 million TEU of container cargo) and to serve 17.4-18.8 million passengers annually. By 2050, the system’s capacity is projected achieve an average growth rate of 4.2%-4.8% per year for cargo and 1.2%-1.3% per year for passengers. This growth will support Vietnam’s import and export needs, inter-regional trade, transshipment for regional countries, and domestic and international passenger transportation.
The revised master plan prioritizes developing international gateway port clusters, including Lach Huyen (Hai Phong), Cai Mep – Thi Vai (Ba Ria–Vung Tau) and Can Gio International Transshipment Port Cluster (Ho Chi Minh City). Additionally, there are study plans for the gradual development of Van Phong International Transshipment Port (Khanh Hoa) and Tran De Port (Soc Trang). Special seaports are planned in Thanh Hoa, Da Nang, Khanh Hoa, and Ho Chi Minh City. The revised plan includes relocating wharves on the Saigon River and considering other relocations in alignment with Ho Chi Minh City’s urban development. The investment needs for cargo handling service wharves by 2030 is estimated at $13 billion.
The plan encourages green and smart port models, utilizing clean energy and digital infrastructure. By 2030, green port standards will be mandatory for all seaport planning, investment, construction, and operations. In July 2022, the Vietnam Government issued a roadmap for green transformation in the maritime sector and in December 2022 developed a base standard on green port criteria. Several Vietnamese ports are pioneering green initiatives by replacing diesel-powered handling equipment with electric equipment, implementing port management software to increase efficiency of operations, using barges instead of trucks for container movements to reduce dust and noise, and building on-site wastewater treatment/water recycling facilities.
Vietnam’s commitment to green port development offers substantial opportunities for U.S. exporters to introduce innovative solutions and technologies. Key areas for collaboration include:
• Shore power
• Electric or clean fuel/ renewable energy-powered port equipment and vehicles
• Energy efficiency technologies and solutions
• Digital transformation products and services
• Environmental protection technologies and services
• Green management services and certification support
For more information, please contact Nga Hoang, Commercial Specialist, U.S. Commercial Service Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam at Nga.Hoang@trade.gov