Ho Chi Minh City builds 3 international passenger ports to develop cruise tourism

The above information was stated by a representative of the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism on the afternoon of October 23 at a press conference providing socio -economic information.

Ms. Nguyen Thi Thanh Thao, Head of the Department of Tourism Resource Development Planning (Ho Chi Minh City Department of Tourism), said that the Cai Mep - Thi Vai area is currently mainly a cargo port and has not been specifically planned for passengers. To welcome international cruise ships, the city needs more time to complete infrastructure, prepare human resources and service procedures.

“From now until June 2026, the Department of Tourism will coordinate with the Cai Mep – Thi Vai Port Management Board to develop a dossier and pilot plan to welcome international passenger ships. At the same time, we are also studying the possibility of adding passenger functions to existing ports instead of just stopping at the pilot level,” said Ms. Thao.

Cai Mep - Thi Vai Port, the largest deep-water port cluster in Vietnam. (Photo: Luong Y)

Implementing the direction of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee, the Department of Construction coordinated with relevant departments and branches to advise on a list of priority investment projects for waterway transport, including international passenger ports. The Department has completed the pre-feasibility study report and submitted to the City People's Committee a proposal for investment in the Vung Tau international passenger port project, meeting the rapidly increasing demand for maritime transport and tourism.

According to the planning approved by the Prime Minister , Cai Mep port area is oriented to be an international gateway and transit port, while Thi Vai port area serves inter-regional socio-economic development.

The Ministry of Construction has allowed international passenger ships to continue to be received at some ports in the Cai Mep - Thi Vai area until June 30, 2026, creating conditions for Ho Chi Minh City to prepare infrastructure and synchronous investment plans, aiming to welcome international visitors stably after 2026.

Luong Y

Source: https://vtcnews.vn/tp-hcm-xay-3-cang-hanh-khach-quoc-te-de-phat-trien-du-lich-tau-bien-ar972824.html