Vietnam to develop coastal shipping to support road transport

One year after the first coastline route opened, it has shown an advantage in shipping costs compared to other types of transport, thus, reducing pressure on road transport. According to the Ministry of Transport, logistics aims to contribute 5 to 10 percent of the total GDP in 2030.

A ship with the capacity of 2000 tons can carry as much as 70 large trucks. According to logistic companies, with a distance of over 200 km, coastal shipping costs can be as low as half of road shipping costs.

"The longer the distance, the lower the price can get. Also road transport currently has yet to meet the demand." - Nguyen Duc Quynh, Logistic Service % Oil Supplier.

Currently, coastal shipping has been developed from the northern province of Quang Ninh to the southern province of Kien Giang. This route has encouraged the growth of this sector: the number of carriers has gone up to 400. Not only service providers, but port operators have also seized this trend to actively enhance capacity.

"With a ship capacity of 2000 tonnes, we can free the ship in 24 hours." - Tran Huu Phuc, Managing Director, Vat Cach Port, Hai Phong Port.

After 1 year of operation, coastal shipping has transported over 6 million tons of cargo, equivalent to the load of 200,000 trucks. However, there are still some limitations.

"Ship owners need to pay more attention to ensure stable human resources and safety." - Trinh The Cuong, Director, Maritime Transport & Service Department, Vietnam Maritime Administration.

"Coastal shipping should develop closer links with other types of transport to increase the quality of shipping services." - Van Trong Dung, Director, Port Authority of Inland Water Area I.

Currently, the Ministry of Transport has launched an electronic platform for many administrative procedures and logistic services. Besides, the railway sector has been restructured to better link with sea and road transport. Currently, road transport still accounts for over 80% of total transport. Thus, coastal shipping will help reduce the overload on road logistics.