1. Historical Milestone: Commencement of Vietnam's First LRT Line

The urban railway line Phu Quoc LRT is not just an ordinary infrastructure project but a key project within the framework of the groundbreaking, inauguration, and technical opening ceremony of projects celebrating the 14th National Congress of the Party. This event marks a new milestone: For the first time in Vietnam, the Light Rail Transit (LRT) model is deployed, and Phu Quoc has the honor of being the pioneering city to own this modern public transport system.

The project is implemented under a BOT (Build-Operate-Transfer) format with the participation of Sun Group as the investor. This is a clear testament to the deeper involvement of the private sector in the public transport infrastructure sector, which requires huge capital and complex operational technology. Currently, Sun Group is the first private enterprise in Vietnam to directly implement an LRT line project, setting an important precedent for the socialization of national transport infrastructure.

With a total investment of nearly 9,000 billion VND, Phase 1 of the Phu Quoc LRT line is expected to be completed in the second quarter of 2027. The commencement of the project at this time carries profound strategic significance, both creating new growth momentum for the upcoming period and affirming the position of a "special economic zone" that is transforming strongly to become an international tourism and event center. The work not only solves the travel problem but also plays a leading role in expanding the development space of the Ngoc Island in a synchronous and civilized direction.

The project is implemented in the form of BOT (Build – Operate – Transfer) with the participation of Sun Group Corporation as the investor.

2. Technical specifications and the "golden" route connecting the South Island

The attractiveness of the LRT Phu Quoc project lies in the scientific calculation of the route and modern operating technology. Phase 1 of the route has a total length of 17.59 km, located on Provincial Road DT.975 – a vital 10-lane road, directly connecting key areas of the island city. This is a strategic journey directly connecting Phu Quoc International Airport with the APEC Organizing Center, forming a synchronous and high-quality public transportation system.

2.1. Flexible and diverse infrastructure

The special feature of this LRT line is its flexible design to optimally meet technical, landscape, and especially security requirements for international events. The train line is arranged to include:

Elevated sections: Ensuring travel speed is not affected by ground traffic and providing landscape views for passengers.

Ground sections: Optimizing accessibility and integration into the existing urban space of the DT.975 axis.

Underground section: This is a particularly important part with 1 underground station located at the APEC Convention Center. The underground design in this area not only ensures urban aesthetics for high-class resorts but also meets strict standards for absolute safety and security for heads of state and high-level delegations attending APEC 2027.

2.2. Station system and superior operational capacity

The entire route is arranged with 6 strategic stations, including 5 ground stations and 1 modern underground station. The vehicles used are new-generation 3-car train systems, designed to reach speeds of 70–100 km/h. With a strong transport capacity of about 4,500 passengers per hour, the LRT line will significantly shorten travel time from Phu Quoc International Airport to the APEC Convention Center and the South Island tourist areas to only about 20 minutes.

This reduction in travel time is extremely important in enhancing customer experience and ensuring professionalism in welcoming international delegations. At the same time, passengers can enjoy a safe, fast, and modern journey on high-quality light rail vehicles.

3. Vision of green transportation and the ecosystem of projects serving APEC 2027

Aiming to become a sustainably developing island city, the LRT Phu Quoc project is identified as a zero-emission energy facility. This is a breakthrough step for Phu Quoc to preserve its precious natural ecosystem while accelerating the development of modern infrastructure. This light rail line is not just a means of transportation, but a symbol of green transportation thinking, helping to reduce pressure on the road transport system, limit the increase of personal vehicles, and encourage the community to shift to energy-efficient, environmentally friendly public transportation models.

The entire route is arranged with 6 strategic stations, including 5 ground stations and 1 modern underground station.

This sustainable vision is further reinforced by the synchronization with other projects serving APEC 2027, which are also being rapidly deployed simultaneously. Phu Quoc has shown comprehensive preparation by combining the LRT line with other foundational infrastructure:

Dương Đông 2 Water Reservoir Investment Project: Ensuring sustainable clean water security for the entire island city, especially during major international events.

Ham Ninh and Cua Can Resettlement Area Projects: These are efforts to stabilize livelihoods and reorganize urban space, creating a premise for the smooth and effective implementation of projects serving APEC 2027.

The integration of LRT Phu Quoc into the ecosystem of projects serving APEC 2027 demonstrates an integrated planning mindset with an international scope. According to the long-term plan, this light rail line will not stop at phase 1 but will continue to be studied for expansion to the Duong Dong area and An Thoi Port. This will help form a "green" public transportation network that comprehensively connects residential centers, tourist areas, services, and key logistics hubs on the island. Direct connections from the airport to resorts, entertainment complexes, and convention centers help create a "car-free tourism" model, moving towards a sustainable future for the special economic zone.

4. Shaping the Special Economic Zone's Urban Landscape: From "Pearl Island" to "Global City"

When the LRT Phu Quoc line officially begins operation in 2027, Phu Quoc special economic zone will undergo a strong transformation in its urban landscape. Possessing a modern and civilized mode of transportation like the LRT light rail helps Phu Quoc confidently approach the operational standards of leading global tourist cities like Singapore or Dubai. The project not only solves transportation needs but also contributes to shaping a modern, synchronized, and professional Phu Quoc.

The LRT line plays a leading role in spatial development, creating a superior competitive advantage for Phu Quoc tourism compared to other destinations in the region. The direct connectivity from Phu Quoc International Airport to resorts and the APEC Convention Center elevates the visitor experience to a new level. This is the core factor in attracting high-end travelers and world-class MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) events to the Pearl Island.

Moreover, this project is a testament to Vietnam's implementation capacity in building modern, international-class public infrastructure. The presence of LRT Phu Quoc along with other synchronized APEC 2027 service projects will create a strategic infrastructure boost, not only effectively serving the APEC 2027 Summit but also shaping the long-term development foundation for the Pearl Island for decades to come.