New Railway Act: Measures for modern rail transport decided!

New Railway Act: Measures for modern rail transport decided!

On June 9, 2025, the Vietnamese government adopted the latest measures to develop the railway system. The Minister of Construction received approval to remove the resolution to test specific mechanisms for investment in the railway sector from the 2025 legislative program. This decision is part of a comprehensive plan to improve infrastructure and promote rail transport.

The draft railway law underwent some adjustments and has now been approved. These adjustments include specific mechanisms and policies for investments that are crucial for the development of the railway sector. The National Assembly will consider the amended draft in the 9th session according to the procedures of the 1st session, which could significantly speed up implementation.

Planned developments

To support the project, the Minister of Construction was commissioned to sign the government's submissions to the National Assembly. These include the adjustment of the legislative program and the amended draft of the Railway Act. In addition, the Construction Minister will also chair the review and revision of the draft law and coordinate with relevant agencies.

The Prime Minister also approved a rail network planning and implementation plan from 2021 to 2030, providing a long-term vision up to 2050. A key part of this plan is to build a light rail system in provincial and metropolitan centers, particularly in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, where light rail networks are targeted for completion by 2035.

Legal framework

The developments in the railway sector are also important in the context of existing German railway law. According to the General Railway Act (AEG), the federal railways must be listed as commercial enterprises under private law. This law requires safe operations and maintaining the infrastructure and vehicles in operational condition. It also contains specifications for railway supervision and regulations for operating licenses.

An overview of relevant laws and regulations shows the comprehensive legal framework that is intended to ensure safe and efficient railway operations. These include, among others, the Federal Railway Traffic Administration Act (BEVVG), the Railway Construction and Operating Regulations (EBO) and other specific regulations that ensure that railway operations meet the required safety standards nationally and internationally.

The focus on institutional strengthening and overcoming deficiencies in the railway sector suggests that Vietnam is committed to promoting rail transport competitiveness. These efforts are not only crucial for national development, but also of strategic importance for regional connectivity and international freight transport.

For further information on the legal framework in rail transport, those interested can visit the website Vietnamese news and the Federal Railway Authority visit.