By
Anh Minh
Tue, September 24, 2024 | 10:23 am GMT+7
Copenhagen-headquartered A.P. Moller Holding has set its sights on constructing large-scale deep-water container ports and strategic logistics projects in Vietnam, a country distinguished by its expansive coastline stretching over 3,200 kilometers. This endeavor reflects A.P. Moller Holding’s commitment to tapping into Vietnam’s burgeoning maritime industry.
During a recent meeting with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh in Hanoi, Robert Maersk Uggla, the chairman of A.P. Moller Holding and Maersk—its shipping arm—expressed enthusiasm for the significant potential and opportunities present in Vietnam. Uggla emphasized the desire of A.P. Moller Holding to contribute further to Vietnam’s development and economic success.

Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh (right) hosts a reception for Robert Maersk Uggla, chairman of A.P. Moller Holding and chairman of Maersk, in Hanoi, September 23, 2024. Photo courtesy of the government’s news portal.
A.P. Moller Holding is renowned globally for its diverse interests in logistics, renewable energy, finance, banking, and consumer products. With a legacy dating back several decades, the company has made notable contributions to global shipping and logistics—a sector increasingly vital in today’s interconnected economy.
In praising the achievements of the Vietnamese government in enhancing the business environment, Uggla highlighted measures that facilitate foreign investment. He commended the government’s efforts toward digital transformation and green initiatives aimed at fostering sustainable development.
Prime Minister Chinh acknowledged the instrumental role A.P. Moller Holding and Maersk have played in Vietnam since the 1990s, significantly contributing to the maturity and sophistication of the country’s maritime industry and its overall economic landscape. The Prime Minister underscored the importance of public-private partnerships in driving economic growth and innovation.
Furthermore, Chinh recognized Maersk and APM Terminals’ visionary goals to construct green and smart ports. APM Terminals, as an independent division within A.P. Moller-Maersk, specializes in the development and operation of ports and container terminals, aligning perfectly with Vietnam’s strategic maritime aspirations.
Vietnam ranks among the top 20 economies globally in terms of international trade volume, highlighting its pivotal role in global commerce. Chinh assured Uggla that Vietnam is prepared to support foreign investors keen on logistics and infrastructure projects, opening avenues for collaboration that promise mutual benefit.
The Prime Minister enthusiastically welcomed A.P. Moller Holding’s plans for expanding investment in Vietnam, particularly in innovative projects focusing on green and smart port systems, logistics services, and sustainable maritime transport solutions. This initiative is expected to bolster Vietnam’s capacity to manage its growing trade volume and reinforce its position on the global trade map.
Chinh also recommended that the Danish group consider investing in key strategic projects, including Lien Chieu Port in Danang and Can Gio international port in Ho Chi Minh City. These initiatives are critical in enhancing Vietnam’s logistical efficiency and port capabilities.
In addition to port development, Chinh urged A.P. Moller Holding to explore investment opportunities in digital transformation, green initiatives, and circular economy practices. Expanding this range of investments could contribute significantly to Vietnam’s sustainable development goals and reinforce a resilient economy responsive to dynamic global challenges.
A.P. Moller Holding’s potential engagement in Vietnam represents not just a business opportunity but an exchange of expertise in modern port management and operational efficiency. It also opens pathways for Vietnam to access international financial resources aimed at comprehensive infrastructure improvement, encompassing seaports, airports, and modern rail systems.