Vietnam focuses on sustainable, intelligent seaport initiatives: Deputy PM.

Vietnam is actively promoting investments in smart and green seaports as the world tightens technical barriers surrounding CO2 emissions and taxes. This pressing initiative reflects Vietnam’s commitment to adapt to global environmental standards while advancing its economic growth.

During a recent meeting in Hanoi, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha emphasized the importance of such developments when discussing opportunities with Rodolphe Saade, the chairman and CEO of CMA CGM, a leading global shipping firm. Ha made it clear that with CMA CGM’s extensive capacity and international credibility, the company is well-positioned to play a key role in the transformation of Vietnam’s port infrastructure.

“CMA CGM should leverage its expertise to invest in modern, environmentally-friendly port projects,” Deputy PM Ha stated. He highlighted the need for infrastructure that accommodates transitioning to green fuel sources and renewable energy, which is increasingly indispensable in the face of tightening global regulations on emissions.

The Deputy Prime Minister also pointed out that Asia—especially Southeast Asia—is evolving into a dynamic production hub, which in turn drives rising demand for efficient freight transport. This aligns perfectly with CMA CGM’s investments, reflecting the broader goal of Vietnam’s sea-based economic development.

Notably, Vietnam has laid out plans for a national seaport system aimed at fostering green shipbuilding facilities and ports, alongside establishing a regional maritime transport fleet. This endeavor is crucial for meeting increasing freight requirements and maximizing the strategic advantages of locations like Cai Mep-Thi Vai, Can Gio, Lien Chieu, and Ca Mau.

Ha highlighted that deep-water ports in central Vietnam, which have either just begun operations or are newly established, hold untapped potential. Furthermore, the government’s foresight includes a network of seaports designed to support socio-economic growth in the Mekong Delta region, underscoring significant infrastructure projects in areas like Tran De and Can Tho ports.

“The government is committed to enhancing transport infrastructure that seamlessly connects with our seaport system,” he added, referencing expressways and high-speed railways that aim to boost the competitiveness of Vietnam’s ports and shipping capacities.

In his address, Ha encouraged companies—CMA CGM included—to share recommendations with the government to address any barriers hindering business innovation and development.

On the topic of operational advancements, CMA CGM’s upcoming electric barge project exemplifies an initiative aligned with the government’s vision. Ha underscored the necessity for companies to work towards a comprehensive value chain, encompassing research, technology transfer, and local manufacturing for logistics and maritime transport equipment.

In a promising response, Rodolphe Saade expressed CMA CGM’s eagerness to elevate Vietnam’s maritime services on the global platform. “We aim to capitalize on Vietnam’s export advantages and enhance our investments in the region,” he stated, indicating a commitment to mutually beneficial growth.

CMA CGM is focusing on deploying electric barges initially on Vietnam’s inland waterways, which will enhance multimodal transport effectiveness integrating seaways, inland routes, roads, and railways.

Recently, CMA CGM reinforced its commitment to Vietnam through a partnership with Saigon Newport Corporation (SNP) for the development of a deep-water terminal in Hai Phong city. The agreement outlines the design, construction, and operations of the Lach Huyen 7&8 terminal, expected to have a capacity of 1.9 million TEUs and scheduled to launch by 2028—a strategic move designed to increase capacity in northern Vietnam’s rapidly growing economic zones.

CMA CGM currently boasts a fleet of over 500 vessels, totaling 3 million TEUs in capacity, equipped with cutting-edge technology for safety and environmental sustainability across 160 countries and nearly 300 shipping routes. The French conglomerate provides a comprehensive logistics chain, including road, inland waterway, and rail transport, catering to global customer needs.

With four operating shipping lines in Vietnam—CMA CGM, APL, ANL, and CNL—plus the logistics company CEVA, they serve crucial ports such as Ho Chi Minh City, Vung Tau, Hai Phong, Da Nang, Quy Nhon, and Chu Lai.