The 163-km Bao Ha-Lai Chau Expressway has been prioritised for construction before 2030 under Vietnam's revised national road network plan, moving the project forward from its previous investment schedule.
Approved under a decision by the Ministry of Construction, the revised plan aims to develop a modern and integrated national road network to strengthen regional connectivity and support socio-economic development.
The expressway will run from Bao Ha in Lao Cai, linking with the Hanoi-Lao Cai Expressway, to Ma Lu Thang Border Gate in Lai Chau, broadly following National Highways 279, 32 and 4D.
The project is planned as a four-lane expressway with design speeds of 80-120 kph. Bridges, tunnels and interchanges will be built to improve connections with urban areas, economic zones and the Ma Lu Thang border crossing.
The expressway is expected to require about 1,304 hectares of land and an estimated investment of VND 49.2 trillion (USD 1.9 billion). Construction will be carried out in phases, depending on transport demand and the availability of funding.
Once completed, the expressway is expected to improve transport links across Vietnam's northwestern region, facilitate cross-border trade and support economic development around the Ma Lu Thang Border Gate.