According to a report by the Ministry of Construction, planning is under way for the 156km Hanoi-Dong Dang line and the 187km Haiphong-Ha Long-Mong Cai route, with both expected to be finalised this year.
The lines will be built as double-track, standard-gauge railways of 1,435mm, with investment targeted before 2030.
Since September 2025, consultants from leading Chinese railway firms have been working in Vietnam to survey proposed routes. An initial report is due in April, with full planning documents scheduled for completion later this year.
Vietnam currently operates two international rail links to China. The Hanoi-Dong Dang line connects to Pingxiang station in Guangxi via Dong Dang border gate, allowing both passenger and freight services to run directly from Gia Lam station in Hanoi to major Chinese cities such as Nanning.
Another route, the Hanoi-Lao Cai railway, links to Hekou North station in Yunnan via Lao Cai border gate, though it primarily uses a narrower 1,000mm gauge, requiring cargo transfers to China’s standard-gauge network.
To further enhance connectivity, both countries are advancing a modern standard-gauge railway project stretching nearly 420km from Lao Cai through Hanoi and Haiphong to Quang Ninh. The project, with total investment of more than VND 203 trillion (about USD 8 billion), began construction in late 2025 and is scheduled for completion by 2030.
Speaking during a visit to Dong Dang station in Lang Son Province on March 19, Party General Secretary To Lam said improved rail links with China would help cut logistics costs, shorten transport times and enhance economic competitiveness.
He added that the projects would ease congestion at land border crossings, promote cross-border trade and support the development of logistics hubs.
In the longer term, the expanded rail network is expected to strengthen Vietnam’s integration into Asia-Europe transport corridors, diversify international shipping options and reduce reliance on maritime routes amid ongoing shifts in global supply chains.
