Study proposed for Vinh-Thanh Thuy expressway to forge new East-West axis

The proposal to construct the Vinh - Thanh Thuy Expressway, a crucial link in Vietnam's national transportation network, was presented by Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son during the 10th session of the 15th National Assembly on December 3.

The project is seen as a pivotal component in enhancing the economic development of the North Central region and strengthening trade between Vietnam, Laos, and the broader region.

Spanning approximately 60 km, the proposed four-lane Vinh – Thanh Thuy Expressway project connects to the North-South Expressway East in Nghe An at its starting point and leads into the Thanh Thuy Border Gate Economic Zone at its terminus. 

Funded as a public investment project, the estimated total investment is around VND23.9 trillion (nearly $906 million), sourced from the increased central government revenue in 2024, and both central and local budgets from 2026 to 2030.

The project is scheduled to commence in 2026 and be operational by 2029. The government has proposed three special mechanisms for the project, including capital balancing assessment, contractor appointment, and regulations on construction waste disposal and topsoil management for rice cultivation land.

Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son emphasized the project's significance in forming an East-West horizontal axis, integrating with vertical routes like the North-South expressway in the East, Ho Chi Minh Road, National Highway 1, and the coastal route.

It will connect Vientiane (Laos) with Hanoi and major economic centers and seaports, enhancing competitiveness and fostering regional cooperation and development.

Presenting the verification report, Chairman of the NA Economic and Finance Committee Phan Van Mai affirmed that the dossier submitted by the Government has essentially satisfied the requirements of Article 21 of the Law on Public Investment regarding projects of national importance. The Government's submission to the NA for consideration and decision on the investment policy is in full compliance with legal regulations.

However, some opinions suggested that the transport demand on the East-West Economic Corridor and the Vinh – Thanh Thuy route needs to be further clarified for each specific phase to highlight the project's urgency.

Additionally, some delegates requested clarification on the investment progress on the Lao side—from the Thanh Thuy Border Gate to Vientiane—to ensure the synchronous operation of the entire route.