Published on
January 27, 2026
A Vietnam railway plan is under development that could redefine how people and goods move across southern Vietnam. The project proposes a modern rail link connecting Ho Chi Minh City with Can Tho and reaching Ca Mau, the country’s southernmost tip. By integrating this line into the national railway network, the government aims to improve mobility, strengthen trade, and provide reliable freight and passenger services throughout the region.
The railway would cover around 280 kilometers, beginning at Thu Thiem Station in Ho Chi Minh City and ending at Dat Mui Station in Ca Mau. Along the route, it will pass through six localities, including Can Tho, improving Mekong Delta transport and connecting rural areas with major urban centers.
Key Features of the Proposed Line
CT Group’s proposal includes modern infrastructure and high-speed capabilities:
- Double-track electrified line built to standard gauge for international compatibility, forming an advanced electrified railway project.
- Operational speeds of 200–250 kph for mixed passenger and freight use, with studies planned for up to 300–350 kph.
- Integration with the existing Ho Chi Minh City railway network for smooth travel.
- Designed to balance freight and passenger services without compromising speed or capacity.
This design will not only link cities but also improve logistics for goods and provide commuters with a faster, safer travel option.
Government Planning and Assessment
The Ministry of Construction has classified the Ho Chi Minh City-Can Tho section as a large-scale national project due to its strategic and financial significance. The My Thuan Project Management Board has been assigned to conduct a detailed pre-feasibility study, evaluating technical, environmental, and financial aspects.
Meanwhile, the Can Tho-Ca Mau segment is already included in Vietnam’s updated national railway network plan for 2021–2030, with a long-term vision stretching to 2050. Forecasts suggest that demand for passenger and freight transport along this route will increase gradually, allowing the project to be implemented in phases that match regional growth.
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Phased Construction Approach
The government plans a staged rollout for the Ho Chi Minh City-Can Tho line:
- Phase One:
- Single-track line spanning 175 km
- Designed for speeds of about 160 kph
- Targeted for completion before 2030
- Phase Two:
- Upgrade to a double-track electrified railway project
- Supports higher-capacity freight and passenger services
- Prepares the corridor for future traffic growth
This phased approach ensures that the railway can meet current demand while scaling for future economic and population growth in the Mekong Delta region.
Benefits for Southern Vietnam
The Ho Chi Minh City railway project promises a range of social and economic benefits:
- Boosted trade and agriculture: Supports movement of goods and agricultural products across the Mekong Delta.
- Reduced travel time: Connects Ho Chi Minh City, Can Tho, and Ca Mau more efficiently.
- Improved reliability: Offers a high-capacity alternative to congested roads, enhancing Mekong Delta transport.
- Job opportunities: Creates work during construction and operational phases.
- Environmental advantages: Electrified trains reduce emissions compared with road transport.
Technical Considerations
Officials emphasize that the electrified railway project must incorporate modern signaling, high-speed capabilities, and stations capable of handling both cargo and passenger traffic efficiently. Balancing these needs ensures that the line will optimize freight and passenger services while maintaining operational safety and reliability.
The line also connects seamlessly with the existing Ho Chi Minh City railway network, allowing commuters and cargo to flow smoothly across southern Vietnam. Advanced design will accommodate both high-speed passenger trains and freight transport without delays or bottlenecks.
Integration with National Planning
The Vietnam railway plan forms part of a broader effort to modernize the national railway network. By linking urban hubs to industrial and agricultural areas, the government aims to enhance regional development and economic activity.
Incorporating this project into the national railway network ensures that it aligns with long-term infrastructure goals, enhances freight and passenger services, and supports sustainable Mekong Delta transport. This integration will make the region more accessible while facilitating trade, tourism, and economic growth.
Looking Forward
The Vietnam railway plan represents a transformative step for southern Vietnam. By connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Can Tho and Ca Mau through an electrified railway project, the government is creating a modern corridor for both passengers and freight.
This line will enhance Ho Chi Minh City railway operations, strengthen Mekong Delta transport, and become a critical part of the national railway network, providing efficient freight and passenger services well into the future.
Key Points at a Glance:
- 280 km electrified double-track line connecting Ho Chi Minh City to Ca Mau.
- Route passes through six provinces, including Can Tho.
- Designed for 200–250 kph with potential for 300–350 kph in studies.
- Phased construction: single-track first, then double-track upgrade.
- Supports simultaneous freight and passenger services.
- Integrates with the existing Ho Chi Minh City railway network.
- Enhances Mekong Delta transport and regional connectivity.
