In preparation for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Year 2027 – the most influential diplomatic event in the region, Phu Quoc, particularly the southern island, is entering its most critical construction phase since its designation as a special economic zone. A series of strategic infrastructure projects are being deployed simultaneously. These initiatives are designed not only to meet the rigorous technical, security and operational requirements of APEC but also to shape the coastal metropolis that Phu Quoc aspires to become in the 2025-2030 period.
Phu Quoc International Airport – The “Gateway” to APEC 2027
As a key transport infrastructure project, Phu Quoc International Airport is undergoing a comprehensive upgrade to meet ICAO 4E standards. It will possess the capacity to accommodate wide-body aircraft with 120 parking stands and handle up to 20 million passengers annually.
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A graphic image of a terminal of Phu Quoc International Airport |
For a destination hosting APEC, the airport serves as more than a transit point; it is the primary “touchpoint” reflecting the nation’s image, service quality, technology and global standing in the eyes of international delegates. Consequently, Phu Quoc International Airport is integrating the world’s most advanced technologies and is being advised on operations by Changi Airport Group – the operator behind Singapore’s renowned Changi Airport.
The Passenger Terminal and VVIP Terminal feature iconic designs built to high-level standards, utilizing cutting-edge operational systems such as Total Airport Management (TAM), biometrics, and automated baggage handling. These innovations ensure a seamless and rapid journey for every visitor, marking a strategic move to facilitate the powerful integration of this special economic zone in the future.
The backbone of Phu Quoc’s transport network
As a special economic zone, Phu Quoc requires a multi-layered transport infrastructure system to meet both the logistical demands of major events and long-term urbanization needs. Road DT.975 spanning 19.26 km with a width of 62m and at least six lanes has been allocated an additional 15m specifically for an electric tramway. This route serves as the backbone connecting the airport to the conference center and acts as the thread shaping Phu Quoc’s multi-center urban structure.
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A graphic image of Phu Quoc's upcoming traffic infrastructure |
Simultaneously, the urban rail line (Phase 1), spanning 18 km with six stations (including one underground station), will be capable of transporting over 4,500 passengers per hour. This system will reduce travel time between key “event - tourism - commerce” coordinates in a few minutes. While this infrastructure model is rare in Vietnam, it is a hallmark of international super-cities such as Dubai, Singapore or Doha.
From a resort paradise, Phu Quoc is undergoing a robust transformation to become an economic, cultural and tourism destination of Asia-Pacific stature. APEC 2027, therefore, is not the final destination, but the beginning of a new era of integration and development.
International Conference Center – The heart of the new metropolis
The Exhibition Conference Center and Multi-purpose Performance Hall are designed based on the Eastern philosophical concept of “Round Sky-Square Earth”, symbolizing the harmony between tradition and modernity.
The center’s most significant highlight is its column-free ballroom. With a span of 81 meters and an area of 11,050 m², it is set to become the largest column-free ballroom in the world, surpassing the current record holder, Caesars Forum in Las Vegas.
Furthermore, a Dinner Show venue with a capacity of 2,000 seats will offer attendees a space to enjoy fine dining alongside spectacular performances that have the unique cultural imprint of the Pearl Island. Currently, Sun Group is partnering with Cirque du Soleil, the world’s leading contemporary circus producer, to create a unique show exclusively for Phu Quoc once the Conference Center commences operations.
Multi-purpose Performance Hall – A convergence of Culture, Creativity, and Identity
The Multi-purpose Performance Hall features a circular block design adorned with a “Dragon Scale” shell, supported by 50 pillars symbolizing the legend of the “50 children following their father to the sea,” evoking the Vietnamese creation myth of the “Descendants of dragons and fairies.” Beyond serving APEC, this venue is envisioned as a “global cultural rendezvous”, hosting film festivals, international art exhibitions and programs dedicated to promoting the image of Vietnam to the world.
Source: VNA