China and Vietnam are strengthening their partnership in technology and infrastructure, driving sustainable development across the region. Under the Belt and Road Initiative, both countries are collaborating on projects that enhance cross-border trade, renewable energy, and urban transit.
Smart Ports Boost Trade
At the Youyiguan Port, also known as Friendship Pass, in Pingxiang City, south China’s Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, there’s been a significant surge in freight traffic. In spring 2025, as China and Vietnam advance smart port development, about 1,500 vehicles pass through the port daily. Thanks to intelligent inspection and paperless clearance, cargo waiting times have dropped by roughly 20 percent, making the port a new driver of regional trade.
Renewable Energy Projects Powering the Future
The Dau Tieng solar power plant in Vietnam, undertaken by the East China Electric Power Design Institute, has been generating 1.5 billion kWh annually since its launch in 2019. This massive solar farm has significantly increased the share of renewables in Vietnam’s energy mix and is considered a key milestone in the country’s green transition. The project was awarded the overseas Luban Prize, one of China’s highest honors for construction quality in international projects.
Meanwhile, in Ho Chi Minh City, equipment commissioning has been completed at a waste-to-energy project. Once operational, it will process around 1,000 tonnes of waste daily and is expected to generate over 300 million kWh annually. This project supports both waste reduction and sustainable energy supply, contributing to environmental management and resource efficiency.
Improving Urban Mobility
The Cat Linh–Ha Dong metro line in Hanoi, built by China Railway’s No. 6 Group, is enhancing urban mobility. The 13.5-kilometer line, which began operation in 2021, has 12 stations and has transported over 35 million passengers as of April 1, 2025. It has greatly alleviated urban congestion and is encouraging green mobility among residents.
During its construction, the project adopted a patented PCC pile foundation reinforcement technology developed by Professor Liu Hanlong’s team at China’s Chongqing University. This technology effectively addressed settlement issues in soft soil conditions, showcasing in-depth China-Vietnam collaboration in infrastructure technology.
A Model for the Global South
The deepening cooperation between China and Vietnam in technology and infrastructure is enhancing regional connectivity and sustainable growth. Their partnership sets a positive example for joint development across the Global South, highlighting the benefits of collaboration in achieving shared goals.
