Lao TianTimes Report The Lao government has submitted a proposal to the National Assembly to move forward with a planned railway linking Laos to Vietnam’s Vung Ang Port.
Deputy Prime Minister Saleumxay Kommasith presented the project on 24 March during the opening session of the 10th National Assembly, describing it as a key national infrastructure priority for the 2026–2030 development period.
Railway to Link Laos to the Sea
The proposed railway will stretch 562 kilometers from Vientiane Capital to Vung Ang Port in Ha Tinh Province, Vietnam, creating a direct route from Laos to the sea.
The project is divided into three sections. The first phase, covering 147 kilometers from Thakhek to the Moua border crossing, will be developed first. The remaining sections will extend the line across Vietnam to the port and connect Vientiane to Thakhek.
The railway will use standard gauge tracks, the same as the Laos–China Railway, and is designed for passenger speeds of up to 150 kilometers per hour and freight speeds of 80 kilometers per hour.
Timeline and Earlier Plans
The proposal builds on earlier plans announced in December, when officials said construction on the Lao section is expected to begin in 2026, with full operations targeted by 2030.
At that time, authorities said most preparatory work had already been completed, including feasibility studies, design, and environmental assessments.
The project is being developed as a public–private partnership involving Petroleum Trading Lao Public Company and Vietnam’s Deo Ca Group.
Vietnam is expected to begin construction on its section in 2027.
The section currently under review by the National Assembly is valued at around USD 1.3 billion and will be developed under a long-term concession model.
However, the full railway project is estimated to cost up to USD 6.6 billion.
Strategic Importance
Officials say the railway would provide Laos with a direct route to the sea, reducing reliance on road transport and lowering logistics costs for trade and exports.
The project is also expected to strengthen economic cooperation between Laos and Vietnam and improve regional supply chains.
Lastly, as part of the agreement, Laos will to receive priority access to key facilities at Vung Ang Port, which can handle large cargo volumes.
The National Assembly is set to decide on initial approval before the current session concludes on 27 March.