Vietnam targets green growth for inland waterway transport

Vietnam is working to transform its inland waterway network into a key component of a green and smart transport system. With approximately 17,026 km of inland waterway routes expected by 2025, the network serves as a vital foundation for transporting large volumes of goods over medium and long distances.

Despite this extensive network, challenges remain regarding synchronized infrastructure and limited connectivity between waterways, roads, railways, seaports, and logistics centers. Strategic goals for 2035 aim to reduce the proportion of road transport on high-demand corridors while increasing the role of railways, inland waterways, coastal shipping, and maritime transport.

According to a draft strategy from the Academy of Strategy and Training, the market share of inland waterway freight transport is projected to reach between 25.5% and 26.3% of total cargo turnover by 2035.