Can Gio Rises: New Infrastructure Fuels Coastal Growth
Can Gio transforms with new mega projects, boosting regional links, marine economy, and green urbanization, redefining HCMC’s development landscape.
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Strategic Infrastructure Projects Set to Transform Can Gio
Can Gio, Ho Chi Minh City’s only coastal district, has long been known for its natural beauty yet remained underdeveloped. With just around 73,000 residents and a density of 106 people per square kilometer, its economy mainly relies on small businesses and lacks major industrial zones or modern infrastructure.
However, 2024 marks a turning point. Ho Chi Minh City is launching a series of strategic infrastructure projects expected to unlock Can Gio’s massive growth potential. According to Prof. Dr. Dang Hung Vo, developing Can Gio into an international hub on the Pacific–Indian Ocean trade route would elevate HCMC’s global economic position.
Situated about 50 kilometers from downtown HCMC, Can Gio boasts 23 kilometers of coastline and over 70% of its 71,300-hectare area covered by mangrove forests and waterways. Until now, the main access road, Rung Sac, has served as the only artery connecting Can Gio to the city center.
Key Infrastructure Projects Shaping the Future
Can Gio Bridge: A Critical Connection
One of the most anticipated projects is the Can Gio Bridge, a strategic link that will cut travel time between downtown HCMC and Can Gio from nearly two hours to under 30 minutes. The bridge will stretch 7.3 kilometers, crossing the Soai Rap River and connecting to the Rung Sac route. Estimated investment: over 10,500 billion VND.
High-Speed Railway: Fast Track to Growth
The Ben Luc–Long Thanh Expressway, spanning approximately 58 kilometers, will further strengthen Can Gio’s links to Long An, Dong Nai, and HCMC’s Long Thanh International Airport. A new direct interchange from the expressway to Rung Sac Road is planned, offering quicker regional access without routing through downtown HCMC.
Marine Economy: The Next Growth Frontier
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tran Dinh Thien, former Director of the Vietnam Institute of Economics, emphasizes that new infrastructure and projects like Vinhomes Green Paradise will integrate Can Gio with coastal economies in Ba Ria–Vung Tau and Long An. He sees Can Gio evolving into a modern, technology-driven coastal hub, attracting talents, investors, and the affluent.
Similarly, Prof. Dr. Dang Hung Vo highlights Can Gio’s strategic position as HCMC’s sole maritime gateway. Leveraging this location, HCMC could reclaim its former geopolitical influence, potentially rivaling Bangkok and Singapore by establishing itself as a key transit point along the Pacific–Indian Ocean corridor.
Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Chu Hoi, Vice President of the Vietnam Fisheries Association, also believes that Can Gio’s development will not only spark economic growth for HCMC but reshape the city’s entire coastal strategy, especially after the planned integration with Ba Ria–Vung Tau province.
