DP World and VIMC Launch Mekong Express to Boost Vietnam’s Coastal Logistics

DP World, in collaboration with VIMC Container Lines Joint Stock Company (VIMC Lines), has launched the Mekong Express – a new domestic sea-river transport service linking Can Tho (Cai Cui) Port and Cai Mep Port in southern Vietnam.

Operating twice weekly, the Mekong Express dramatically reduces delivery times between the two ports from 48 hours via traditional inland waterways to just 15 hours using a combined river and sea route. This marks a 70% improvement in transit time. The new coastal route spans around 200 km, significantly shorter than the previous 367 km river journey, offering a faster, more cost-effective, and environmentally friendly option for cargo transport.

The service officially commenced operations with the successful completion of its inaugural voyage. A launch ceremony was held to mark the occasion, attended by Eisa Alhammadi from the UAE Embassy in Vietnam, Nguyen Ngoc He, Vice Chairman of the People’s Committee of Can Tho City, and senior executives from both DP World and VIMC Lines.

Tailored for both dry and cold chain logistics, the Mekong Express can carry several hundred TEUs per voyage, including a large number of refrigerated containers. Plans are already underway to expand the route to include calls at the Saigon Premier Container Terminal (SPCT), operated by DP World, and Saigon Hiep Phuoc Port under VIMC.

Beyond speed and efficiency, the service also brings significant environmental benefits. Compared to road transport, the Mekong Express generates 60% fewer carbon emissions. With advanced digital cargo tracking and carbon monitoring systems in place, DP World and VIMC Lines aim to make the service net-zero by 2026.

Glen Hilton, CEO & Managing Director for Asia Pacific at DP World, said: “DP World is committed to developing an integrated and resilient supply chain network in Vietnam, which is rapidly emerging as a key trade hub in Asia Pacific. The Mekong Express is a direct response to market demand for faster, greener, and more reliable logistics. It not only supports economic activity in southern Vietnam but also strengthens DP World’s broader expansion efforts in the country.”

Dr Le Quang Trung, Deputy CEO of VIMC and Chairman of the Board at Can Tho Port Joint Stock Company, added: “VIMC is proud to bring a new level of efficiency and dependability to Vietnam’s logistics sector through the Mekong Express. This partnership with DP World Vietnam reflects our shared vision to innovate and deliver meaningful value to customers while reinforcing Vietnam’s supply chain resilience. We aim to deepen international collaborations and unlock even greater opportunities for growth.”

Strengthening Vietnam’s Role in Global Trade

The Mekong Express enhances connectivity between the Mekong Delta Key Economic Region (MDKER) and the Southern Key Economic Region (SKER), two vital engines of Vietnam’s manufacturing and export economy. By improving logistics between these regions, the new service reinforces Vietnam’s strategic position in regional and global supply chains.

DP World currently operates the Saigon Premier Container Terminal (SPCT) in Ho Chi Minh City – Southern Vietnam’s only roll-on/roll-off terminal – with an annual capacity of 400,000 TEUs. The company also maintains its corporate headquarters in Ho Chi Minh City, with additional freight forwarding offices in Can Tho, Haiphong, and Hanoi.

The launch of the Mekong Express reflects DP World’s ongoing investment in Vietnam’s logistics infrastructure and its long-term commitment to delivering smarter trade solutions across Asia.

Sources: logistics.asia