Driving economic growth through port development

Driving economic growth through port development (Photo: VNA)

Quang Tri - Quang Tri province has been focusing on attracting investments in its port infrastructure, aiming to establish itself as a significant logistics and trade hub in the central region and countries along the East-West Economic Corridor (EWEC) by 2030.

Quang Tri’s strategic location positions it as a vital connection point in the central region and a gateway to the East Sea for EWEC nations. This geographical advantage underpins its role as a point for exchange and cooperation between the country's localities and nations in in the Greater Mekong Subregion and a bridge connecting north-central and and central regions.

At the heart of this vision is the My Thuy deep-water port. The My Thuy port project phase 1 has been under construction in Hai Lang district's Hai An commune in the Southeast Quang Tri economic zone since the end of March. Phase 1 is expected to be completed by the end of 2025 with two to four wharfs to be completed. The total length of the wharf edge is 1,300 m, width is 50 m plus the technical infrastructure system and auxiliary works for ships with a tonnage of up to 100,000 tonnes docking at the port. The My Thuy port area is receiving the attention of many businesses investing in logistics and goods transshipment.

According to the provincial Department of Planning and Investment, there is huge potential for import of coal from Laos via the La Lay international border gate. To increase its coal import capability, Quang Tri is carrying out projects infrastructure projects connecting the La Lay international border gate to the My Thuy deep-water port, such as a 78km National Highway 15D.

Additionally, a conveyor system capable of transporting up to 30 million tonnes of coal annually from Laos to the port is under development.

The My Thuy port will play a crucial role in supporting the Hai Lang LNG Power Centre, a 54 trillion VND project with a projected capacity of 4,500 MW. Phase 1, scheduled to begin operations in 2029, includes LNG storage facilities capable of accommodating vessels carrying 170,000-226,000 cubic meters of gas.

Plans also involve converting an existing coal power plant into a gas-fired facility, aligning with Quang Tri’s energy transition initiatives.

In addition, Quang Tri hosts 32 wood chip processing facilities that produce over 2 million tonnes annually, with significant export potential to China and other markets. Businesses anticipate that the completion of the My Thuy port will streamline export operations and lower logistics costs.

The My Thuy project will unfold in three phases through 2036, with a total investment exceeding 14 trillion VND. Upon completion, the 10-berth facility will handle ships of up to 100,000 tonnes.

Other regional ports, such as the Cua Viet port and CFG Nam Cua Viet facility, are also undergoing upgrades to enhance regional logistics capabilities. The Cua Viet port, currently capable of handling over 1.1 million tonnes of cargo annually, is receiving infrastructure investments to expand its capacity. The CFG Nam Cua Viet facility, designed to handle ships of 3,000-5,000 tonnes, will process 1-1.4 million tonnes of cargo annually after its anticipated completion in 2025.

Quang Tri’s strategic investments in port development aim to strengthen trade flows along the EWEC, attract domestic and foreign investments, and drive industrial growth. With enhanced infrastructure and a focus on sustainable energy, the province is poised to become a cornerstone of Vietnam’s economic landscape./.