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Phu Quoc races to complete transport hub ahead of APEC 2027

Vietnam's largest island is accelerating infrastructure development to transform itself into a modern multimodal transport hub before hosting APEC in 2027. The ambitious projects include a light rail system, airport expansion, and integrated road networks connecting air, sea and rail gateways.

LSN Vietnam · 21 September 2026

Phu Quoc races to complete transport hub ahead of APEC 2027

Phu Quoc is undergoing a comprehensive transportation overhaul to prepare for its role as host of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation summit in 2027. The southern island is shifting from reliance on a single major road corridor toward an integrated transport network that seamlessly combines highway, rail, and maritime infrastructure.

Central to these plans is the construction of a light rail system and expansion of the island's airport facilities. These projects are designed to enhance connectivity between Phu Quoc's key economic zones and transport nodes, including its seaports and future aviation facilities. Officials view the infrastructure buildout as essential for managing anticipated visitor flows and commerce during the APEC gathering.

Beyond the 2027 summit, the transport infrastructure enhancements are intended to position Phu Quoc for sustained economic development. By establishing multimodal connectivity, the island aims to attract investment in tourism, manufacturing, and logistics sectors that rely on efficient movement of goods and people. The coordinated approach to transport planning reflects broader regional efforts to develop interconnected economic corridors across Southeast Asia.

Local authorities have prioritized timely completion of the rail and airport projects to ensure Phu Quoc can accommodate the demands of hosting a major international summit while supporting the island's longer-term growth trajectory. The infrastructure investments represent a significant commitment to transforming Vietnam's largest island into a competitive regional transport and economic hub.