Major infrastructure project: Phu Quoc is preparing for APEC 2027!
The Vietnamese government decided on June 1, 2025 to invest in expanding Phu Quoc International Airport in preparation for the 2027 APEC conference.
Major infrastructure project: Phu Quoc is preparing for APEC 2027!
On June 1, 2025, the Government of Vietnam issued Resolution No. 01/2025/NQ-CP on the expansion of Phu Quoc International Airport. This measure is part of comprehensive preparations for the 2027 APEC Conference, which will be held on Phu Quoc Island. The Kien Giang Provincial People's Committee was tasked with selecting domestic investors for the project and overseeing its implementation. The aim is to maintain the character of a shared civil-military airport to meet the needs of the conference.
The People's Committee has also been given the authority to approve and, if necessary, adjust investment guidelines. These approval procedures are carried out in accordance with the Investment Law. An environmental impact assessment is also required and is the responsibility of this committee. The airport's infrastructure is managed under the supervision of the Ministry of Construction, with security and defense facilities excluded by the Airports Corporation – JSC (ACV).
Infrastructure projects for APEC 2027
To advance planned infrastructure investments, a groundbreaking ceremony for various projects aimed at APEC 2027 was held on Friday. This includes significant upgrades to the transport network, both air, sea and land, as well as the development of a multi-functional APEC complex on 57 hectares. For this purpose, Phu Quoc International Airport will be expanded to classification 4E in accordance with the requirements of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO).
The expansion includes a second 3.3 kilometer runway, a new Terminal 2, expanded international terminal with capacity for 20 million passengers annually and a VIP terminal. In addition, a parking area for 70 aircraft, hangars and cargo storage will be created on around 1,073 hectares. In addition to the airport, Rach Gia Airport is also being expanded, which will be expanded by 200 hectares and have a new runway and a larger terminal for larger aircraft.
Incoming developments and facilities
For maritime connectivity, An Thoi International Port will be expanded to 100 hectares for the world's largest cruise ships (7,000-10,000 passengers). Major road projects include the extension of Provincial Road 975, the construction of a new coastal ring road and the development of an urban rail system. In addition, water reservoirs and treatment plants are being built, the Duong Dong River is being renatured and sewage and waste disposal facilities are being set up.
The multifunctional APEC complex will include not only a 10,000 square meter conference and exhibition center with a hall for 3,000 to 3,500 people, but also an international media center for 3,000 to 4,000 journalists, an APEC plaza and a high-rise with hotels, a casino and a duty-free shop. A special highlight will be a 69-story landmark building that will house office space, high-quality hotels, commercial spaces, a free trade zone and a marina.
At the groundbreaking ceremony, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha emphasized the importance of APEC 2027. He called on the Kien Giang administration to establish an APEC steering committee, determine responsibilities and accelerate project implementation. A timely resolution of existing issues and a focus on land release and attracting investors were highlighted as crucial.
To finance these projects, land use revenue will flow into the Kien Giang provincial budget to support further infrastructure projects as part of the 2027 APEC conference. The repayment of the value of assets to be handed over to the State will be ensured by future users, both in terms of authorization and use of the infrastructure.
These extensive measures to strengthen infrastructure and prepare for the APEC conference demonstrate Vietnam's determination to assert itself as a major player in the Asia-Pacific region. Vietnam.vn reports that these developments are not only important for the conference but will also contribute to the country's economy in the long term. Further details can also be found on Tuoi Tre News.