The World Bank has approved a USD107 million credit to enhance the capacity, efficiency, and safety of inland waterways in Southern Vietnam. This initiative aims to increase freight traffic, reduce travel time on critical transport corridors, and cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in the transport sector.
The southern region waterways and logistics corridor development project will improve connectivity between key production hubs and enhance export competitiveness. Upgrading the east-west transport corridor will reduce the distance by about 30 per cent between Can Tho and Ho Chi Minh City, meanwhile, improvements to the north-south corridor will link the Mekong Delta directly with primary ports, facilitating international trade and reducing emissions. Additionally, the project will also enhance safety by installing navigation aids and improving sharp bends on the waterway.