Vietnam’s Hidden Gem Transformed: How Can Gio is Becoming the New Urban Powerhouse of Ho Chi Minh City!

Can Gio, once considered a remote and overlooked district of Ho Chi Minh City, is rapidly transforming into a bustling urban hub. This change is largely driven by a groundbreaking 2,870-hectare coastal urban project backed by Vingroup, Vietnam’s largest private conglomerate. The ambitious initiative, launched six months ago, has injected new life into the area, marking a significant shift in the district’s development trajectory.

For years, Can Gio was isolated from the city’s rapid urban expansion. The area was difficult to access, surrounded by dense forests, and could only be reached by ferry. However, this perception is now changing as the massive development project reshapes the region. The project is not only intended to improve the local infrastructure but is also viewed as a major economic catalyst for Ho Chi Minh City, extending its urban footprint toward the sea.

A Game-Changing Project for Can Gio’s Future

The launch of this major land reclamation project has been described as a “game changer” by locals. The once quiet coastal area is now a hub of activity, with construction workers operating heavy machinery around the clock. In just a few months, hundreds of hectares of land have been filled and stabilized, and the rapid progress has surprised even experts.

According to Prof. Pham Van Song, president of the Mien Dong University of Technology, the scale and speed of development have been remarkable. He noted that the rapid transformation of the area from a remote location to a dynamic urban space is a testament to the project’s potential to change Can Gio’s status within the region.

This project, spearheaded by Vingroup through its real estate arm, Vinhomes, is not just a typical development. It represents one of the group’s most ambitious coastal urbanization efforts, combining residential, tourism, and infrastructure projects into a comprehensive master plan. With billions of dollars invested, it aims to place Can Gio at the forefront of the city’s economic expansion and development.

Infrastructure Developments Boosting Connectivity

The development of Can Gio is supported by a series of major infrastructure projects designed to improve connectivity and accessibility. One of the most significant projects is the construction of the Phu My Hung-Can Gio high-speed railway, which is set to begin construction by the end of 2025. This railway will have an impressive design capable of reaching speeds of up to 350 kilometers per hour, linking Can Gio with the southern urban core of Ho Chi Minh City. This railway is expected to dramatically reduce travel times and make the area far more accessible to residents and visitors.

In addition to the railway, the highly anticipated Can Gio Bridge is scheduled to break ground in 2026. Once completed, the bridge will reduce travel time to the city center to about 45 to 60 minutes, providing an efficient direct route to and from Can Gio.

The Rung Sac interchange, with an investment of 3,000 billion VND (around 120 million U.S. dollars), will further connect Can Gio with the Ben Luc-Long Thanh Expressway. Scheduled for completion in 2028, this infrastructure project will create direct links between Can Gio and the Southwest and Southeast regions of Vietnam, including the future Long Thanh International Airport.

Additionally, Vingroup has proposed a sea-crossing expressway that would stretch more than 10 kilometers across the sea, linking Can Gio and Vung Tau. This 50-meter wide expressway could reduce travel time between the two coastal cities to just 15 minutes, fostering economic ties and improving connectivity between key coastal regions.

Can Gio’s Rising Economic Potential

These transformative infrastructure projects are all part of a broader regional development plan that aims to integrate various modes of transportation, including road, rail, water, and sea transport. Can Gio International Transshipment Port, set to cover 571 hectares with an investment of 50,000 billion VND, is another monumental project in the pipeline. This port is designed to be a hub for Vietnam’s growing maritime economy, and its first phase is expected to begin operations in 2027, with full completion slated for 2045.

Prof. Pham Van Song highlights that the combination of infrastructure investment and Vingroup’s developments is poised to make Can Gio a central economic hub for the region. The port and transportation projects, alongside the residential and commercial developments, are expected to drive significant growth, particularly in terms of the Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP). As more infrastructure is completed, the number of residents and visitors in Can Gio is projected to increase, enhancing the district’s economic standing and transforming it into a prosperous urban center.

Investor Interest and Market Growth

The progress in Can Gio has already sparked significant interest among investors. According to Dinh Minh Tuan, southern regional director of Batdongsan.com.vn, the number of online searches for Can Gio real estate has tripled since the beginning of the year. Following the groundbreaking of the Vinhomes Green Paradise project, property interest in the district has doubled, indicating strong investor confidence.

This pattern mirrors past trends in other parts of Ho Chi Minh City. In the 1990s, Nguyen Van Linh Boulevard helped turn southern Ho Chi Minh City into a thriving urban area, attracting nearly two million residents. Similarly, the Thu Thiem Tunnel and Bridge in the 2010s drew more than a million people to the city’s east. Experts like Tuan believe that Can Gio, with its strong infrastructure push, is poised for similar success, offering a significant opportunity for investors looking to capitalize on the region’s growth.

Can Gio’s Promising Future

With a population of around 80,000, Can Gio has long struggled with limited connectivity. However, with the ongoing large-scale investments in infrastructure and development, the district is expected to experience rapid growth. Tuan believes that Can Gio is now set to outpace many of the earlier urban developments in Ho Chi Minh City, thanks to its strategic location and extensive investment in modernization.

The completion of key infrastructure projects, along with Vingroup’s ambitious coastal urban development, will likely position Can Gio as a major urban center in the coming years. The combination of residential, tourism, and commercial projects, coupled with strong investor interest, points to a bright future for this once-isolated district.

Conclusion

The transformation of Can Gio from a remote and isolated area into a rapidly developing urban hub exemplifies the power of targeted investment and strategic infrastructure development. With billions of dollars being poured into the region’s growth, Can Gio is set to become a central part of Ho Chi Minh City’s economic and urban landscape. As Vingroup’s coastal urban development continues to reshape the area, Can Gio’s economic potential will likely rise, drawing both residents and investors to this newly emerging district. The future of Can Gio is unfolding, and the district is set to become one of the most important growth engines for the southern metropolis of Vietnam.

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Vietnam Airlines Launches Game-Changing Direct Flight from Ho Chi Minh City to Dien Bien – A Must-See Destination Awaits!

Vietnam Airlines has recently inaugurated its first-ever direct flight connecting the economic hub of Ho Chi Minh City with Dien Bien Province in the country’s northwestern region. This new service promises to foster greater regional connectivity, making travel more accessible and supporting tourism and local economic growth. The inaugural flight, which departed from Tan Son Nhat International Airport on December 24, 2025, marked a milestone in the airline’s expansion of its domestic network.

The flight, VN1160, departed at 9:35 AM, carrying nearly 100 passengers, and landed at Dien Bien Airport at 11:55 AM. This connection brings new opportunities for travelers, especially those interested in exploring Dien Bien’s rich history, cultural diversity, and breathtaking landscapes.

Flight Details and Frequency

The newly launched route is operated by an Airbus A321 aircraft, renowned for its efficiency and comfort on domestic routes. The flight takes approximately two hours and 20 minutes, ensuring a quick and convenient travel experience between the two regions. Vietnam Airlines will operate the Ho Chi Minh City to Dien Bien route twice a week, providing greater access to this culturally rich and scenic destination.

Additionally, passengers arriving in Dien Bien can seamlessly connect to Hanoi, Vietnam’s capital, with daily flights. This convenient schedule allows tourists and business travelers to easily explore multiple destinations within Vietnam.

Supporting Local Tourism and Socio-Economic Development

The introduction of this route is a strategic move to promote Dien Bien as a tourism destination, offering greater exposure to its scenic beauty and ethnic diversity. The province is known for its historical significance, particularly in relation to the Battle of Dien Bien Phu, a pivotal event in the First Indochina War. Tourists can now visit the area with ease, making it an ideal stop for those interested in history, nature, and cultural exploration, particularly during the winter-spring season when the region’s landscapes are at their most inviting.

Dang Anh Tuan, the Deputy General Director of Vietnam Airlines, emphasized the significance of this route as an essential step in expanding the airline’s domestic network. The new service not only benefits tourists but also contributes to the socio-economic development of the province by providing better accessibility for business and trade connections.

Dien Bien’s Growing Role in Vietnam’s Tourism Landscape

Dien Bien, with its lush valleys, mountain ranges, and cultural heritage, has always been a hidden gem for travelers seeking an off-the-beaten-path experience. The new flight service opens up Dien Bien to a broader audience, offering local tourism a much-needed boost. The region’s diverse ethnic groups, including the H’mong, Thai, and Dzao, contribute to its vibrant cultural landscape, which is attracting more visitors interested in experiencing authentic, rural life in Vietnam.

By improving access to Dien Bien, Vietnam Airlines is helping to bolster the province’s profile as a tourism hotspot, offering direct routes to travelers from major cities such as Ho Chi Minh City and Hanoi. Additionally, the connectivity improvements are expected to increase the flow of tourists to the province, generating economic benefits for local businesses and communities.

Vietnam Airlines’ Commitment to Regional Connectivity

Vietnam Airlines has long been a leader in the country’s air transport sector, continuously expanding its network to support both domestic and international connectivity. With the recent expansion to Dien Bien, the airline is reinforcing its commitment to enhancing regional connectivity and supporting the growth of Vietnam’s tourism industry.

The airline’s efforts to improve access to underrepresented regions align with its strategy to make Vietnam Airlines a more comprehensive service provider within Southeast Asia. It has been particularly instrumental in connecting major hubs like Ho Chi Minh City to the more remote areas of the country, ensuring that travelers can explore all corners of Vietnam.

Dien Bien Airport’s Reopening and Growth

The reopening of Dien Bien Airport in December 2023 has been a significant milestone for the province. Since its reopening, the airport has been a crucial facilitator of regional connectivity, helping Vietnam Airlines operate nearly 2,700 flights and serve more than 385,000 passengers. The launch of the Ho Chi Minh City – Dien Bien route is part of a broader initiative to expand and strengthen regional transportation networks, ensuring sustainable development for the entire region.

This service expansion is not just about improving tourism but also about making Dien Bien more accessible for business activities. The improved air connectivity is expected to stimulate investments, enhance trade, and foster economic growth, creating new opportunities for both local residents and businesses.

The Future of Vietnam Airlines’ Domestic Network

The launch of the Ho Chi Minh City – Dien Bien flight route is just one example of Vietnam Airlines’ ongoing efforts to enhance its domestic network. Over the years, the national carrier has been expanding its reach across the country, connecting major cities with regional hubs, offering competitive prices, and improving customer experiences. This route is part of the airline’s strategy to meet the growing demand for domestic travel in Vietnam, catering to both tourists and business professionals.

Looking forward, Vietnam Airlines is expected to continue growing its network, introducing more direct flights to underserved destinations across Vietnam. The airline’s focus on expanding its domestic services is critical to supporting the nation’s economic and tourism goals, ensuring that both locals and international visitors have access to convenient, efficient air travel options.

Conclusion: Enhancing Accessibility and Tourism in Vietnam

The new direct flight between Ho Chi Minh City and Dien Bien represents a significant development in Vietnam’s transportation infrastructure. By enhancing air connectivity, Vietnam Airlines is not only facilitating tourism but also driving economic growth and supporting regional development. The service brings Dien Bien closer to the country’s economic hub, creating new travel opportunities for both domestic and international tourists. As the province’s tourism industry flourishes, the enhanced connectivity will contribute to Vietnam’s broader goals of economic growth and sustainable development.

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