ANN/LAOTIAN TIMES – A new railway project between Laos and Vietnam is set to commence, paving the way for a direct transportation link between the two nations.
It will serve as a key driver for economic growth and infrastructure development in the region.
The project is part of the Vientiane-Vung Ang railway development plan for 2021–2030, with a vision towards 2050. It represents a collaborative effort involving Vietnam’s Deo Ca Group JSC and Petroleum Trading Lao Public Company (PTL), with development structured as a public-private partnership, as reported by Vietnam Plus.
Covering a length of 103 kilometres from Vung Ang-Tan Ap-Mu Gia, the first section of the railway is estimated to cost nearly VND27.5 trillion (approximately USD1.12 billion).
According to Vietnamese media sources, the joint venture must conduct a pre-feasibility study and submit a report on their findings in accordance with national and regional laws and planning schemes before starting work on the project.
President of PTL Chanthone Sitthixay stated at the signing of a joint venture in late February that the railway has the potential to greatly benefit the economies and societies of both Laos and Vietnam, as well as to strengthen the already close ties between the two countries.
The project is expected to be operational in early 2027.
