Authorities in Kien Giang Province, southern Vietnam held a groundbreaking ceremony on Friday for key infrastructure projects in preparation for the 2027 Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Economic Leaders’ Meeting, which Vietnam will host on Phu Quoc Island.

The projects include major upgrades to air, sea, and land transportation networks, along with the development of a multi-functional APEC complex spanning 57 hectares.

Phu Quoc International Airport will undergo a significant upgrade to meet the 4E classification under the International Civil Aviation Organization. 

The airport expansion includes a second 3.3km-long runway, a new Terminal 2, an expanded international terminal with an annual capacity of 20 million passengers, a VIP terminal, a 70-aircraft parking apron, hangars, and cargo warehouses, covering approximately 1,073 hectares.

Rach Gia Airport located in the provincial city of Rach Gia will also be upgraded, with a 200-hectare expansion, a 2.4-kilometer runway extension, and a new terminal to accommodate larger aircraft.

An Thoi International Port will be expanded to 100 hectares to accommodate the world's largest cruise ships, carrying 7,000-10,000 passengers.

Several key road projects are also in the works, including the expansion of Provincial Road 975, a new coastal ring road, and the development of an urban rail system.

Water reservoirs and treatment plants will be built, the Duong Dong River will be rehabilitated, and wastewater and solid waste treatment facilities will be constructed.

A major highlight is the multi-functional APEC complex, a 57-hectare land reclamation project in An Thoi Ward. 

The complex will feature a 10,000-square-meter convention and exhibition center with a 3,000-3,500-seat conference hall, an international media center for 3,000-4,000 journalists, an APEC square, and a high-rise complex featuring hotels, a casino, and a duty-free shopping center.

A 69-story landmark building, which will house offices, high-end hotels, commercial spaces, a duty-free zone, and a marina, is envisioned as a new symbol of Phu Quoc.

"APEC 2027 will drive Phu Quoc to become a leading regional and global tourism and economic hub,” said Dang Minh Truong, board chairman of Vietnam’s major real estate developer Sun Group.

“Sun Group is committed to working with the government to realize this vision."

Speaking at the event, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha emphasized the significance of APEC 2027 and urged the Kien Giang administration to establish an APEC steering committee, assign responsibilities, and expedite project implementation. 

Deputy PM Ha called for timely resolution of any obstacles and urged the province to focus on land clearance and investor attraction.

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