Vietnam’s National Assembly heard government investment proposals for three expressway projects on 7 November. Their proposed lengths total 430.5 kilometres, covering Bảo Hà–Tân Phong, Quảng Ngãi–Kon Tum and the Sơn La section of the Mộc Châu–Sơn La–Điện Biên route, the Government News reported.
Routes and financing proposals
Construction Minister Trần Hồng Minh presented plans for a 119-kilometre Bảo Hà–Tân Phong section, designed for four lanes and speeds of 80–120 kilometres an hour. Its estimated investment is 50.99 trillion đồng. The report said a build-operate-transfer partnership had been studied, but a payback period could not be established even with preliminary state support of 50–70% of the investment.
The submission therefore proposes public investment, citing the route’s mountainous and border setting and its interregional role. It also proposes special mechanisms covering matters including resettlement, contractor selection, planning adjustments and construction waste.
The proposed Quảng Ngãi–Kon Tum expressway would be 132 kilometres long and is also presented as a public investment project. The ministry says it would improve links between Quảng Ngãi, surrounding localities and regional seaports.
A proposed timetable
The section of the Mộc Châu–Sơn La–Điện Biên project within Sơn La province would extend 179.5 kilometres. Public investment is proposed after consideration of a BOT arrangement, with the report citing difficult terrain and the need to reduce transport costs in mountainous areas.
For Bảo Hà–Tân Phong and Quảng Ngãi–Kon Tum, the submission envisages preparation in 2026–2027, construction starting in 2027, substantial completion in 2030 and operation in 2031. The Sơn La section is also envisaged for investment from 2027 and operation in 2031.
The timetables and funding figures are part of the proposals before the assembly. For Bảo Hà–Tân Phong, the government asked lawmakers to decide on the investment policy and assign implementation to the government in accordance with the law.