Laos–Vietnam Railway to Begin Construction in 2026, Transforming Regional Trade by 2030

09/12/2025 12:12

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ຂປລ Construction of the long-anticipated international railway linking Vientiane, Laos, with Vietnam’s Ha Tinh Province is scheduled to begin in 2026, marking a major step toward strengthening regional connectivity and economic integration. The US$6.6-billion project is expected to open in 2030.

(KPL) Construction of the long-anticipated international railway linking Vientiane, Laos, with Vietnam’s Ha Tinh Province is scheduled to begin in 2026, marking a major step toward strengthening regional connectivity and economic integration. The US$6.6-billion project is expected to open in 2030.

The railway will give landlocked Laos a direct route to the sea via Vietnam’s Vung Ang Port, advancing the government’s strategy to transform the country into a land-linked hub for transport and logistics.

Progress in Laos

Mr Chanthone Sitthixay, Director-General and Founder of Petroleum Trading Lao Public Company, the project developer on the Lao side, said preparations are nearing completion. Around 90% of pre-construction work— including funding arrangements, route surveys, detailed designs and environmental studies—has already been finalized. With these foundations in place, Laos plans to commence construction in 2026.

The route covers 452 km inside Laos, running from Vientiane to the Lao–Vietnamese border near Thakhaek, before continuing 119 km through Vietnam to Vung Ang Port.

Vietnam’s Commitment

Vietnam is finalizing economic assessments and initial design work, and intends to start construction on its section in 2027. Both sides aim to complete the line simultaneously to meet the 2030 opening target.

A New Economic Corridor

The Laos–Vietnam Railway is being hailed as a major step in expanding the special friendship and comprehensive cooperation between the two countries. The project aligns with the priorities of both governments to strengthen trade, logistics and regional transportation.

Once operational, the railway is expected to deliver significant benefits: For travellers: a safer, faster and more convenient transport option between the two countries.

For trade: reduced transport costs and more competitive access to global markets for Lao products.

For the region: enhanced connectivity supporting long-term development and deeper economic partnership.

The planned 2030 launch is set to mark a turning point for Laos as it moves closer to becoming a key regional connector.

KPL

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