Vietnam Accelerates North-South High-Speed Rail Development with January Consultant Deadline

HANOI, January 2026 — Vietnam’s commitment to advancing its national infrastructure is reflected in the accelerated development of its North-South high-speed railway. This initiative aligns with a broader regional trend across Asia to expand modern rail networks that support economic growth and strengthen connectivity.

Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has directed the Ministry of Construction to appoint an international consultant for the project by the end of January 2026, with a feasibility study report scheduled for submission by January 15. The goal is to expedite technical preparation and ensure institutional readiness for this ambitious undertaking.

The consultant will play a key role in evaluating investment models and selecting suitable technologies, ranging from conventional high-speed rail to magnetic levitation systems. This phase is critical for establishing project criteria and ensuring the railway meets Vietnam’s economic, technical, and operational requirements.

The planned 1,540-kilometer route, estimated to cost $58.71 billion and designed for speeds of up to 350 km/h, represents a major investment in national infrastructure. The project mirrors China’s rapid expansion of high-speed rail networks, underscoring a regional emphasis on advanced rail capabilities.

As Vietnam advances through this planning stage, the North-South high-speed railway is positioned to become a central driver of future mobility in Southeast Asia, highlighting the growing role of high-speed rail in sustainable development.

Source: Vietnam Investment Review