Vietnam’s high-speed rail links with China: economic boon or bane?
Despite the risks, the two rail lines hold the promise of greater trade and business opportunities between the two countries
[HO CHI MINH CITY] High-speed rail is generating buzz in Vietnam, as plans are being drawn up to start building two lines connecting the capital Hanoi to China before 2030.
The initiative promises substantial economic benefits for the South-east Asian country, but could also heighten its economic dependence on China, said Dr Majo George, a senior lecturer at The Business School of RMIT University in Vietnam.
The upsides of the two rail routes are clear, he said, because faster access to Chinese markets and ports will open up new business opportunities and lower logistics and operations costs.
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