HCMC – An estimated US$13 billion will be required to build two rail lines connecting northern Vietnam with China, said a report by the Ministry of Transport.
In a document sent to the Government, the Ministry of Transport outlined plans for the two railways, which are expected to facilitate cross-border cargo movement.
The proposed Hanoi-Dong Dang and Haiphong-Halong-Mong Cai railways would use standard-gauge tracks (1,435mm) to align with Chinese standards.
The Hanoi-Dong Dang line would cost around US$6 billion and have a total length of 156 kilometers. Starting from Yen Vien Station in Hanoi, the route would end at the Dong Dang border in Lang Son Province, linking northeastern provinces such as Bac Ninh and Bac Giang. The speed for passenger trains on this line is expected to be capped at 160 km/h, while that for freight trains is 120 km/h.
The other line, which is estimated to require US$7 billion, would run from Haiphong to Mong Cai with a total length of over 187 kilometers. Beginning at Nam Dinh Vu Station in Haiphong, it would pass through Halong and connect to China at Mong Cai’s Bac Luan Bridge. The line is intended to strengthen links between Vietnam’s northern coastal provinces and support cross-border trade, with speed targets matching those of the Hanoi-Dong Dang line.
To advance these projects, the Ministry of Transport has secured technical support from China for study and planning. The Vietnam Railway Authority and its Chinese counterparts are currently working on detailed blueprints, which are expected to be completed by 2025 to assess feasibility and guide investment.
