The Hateco International Container Terminal in Hai Phong, Vietnam’s first smart port, features automated entry gates and semi-automated berths capable of accommodating the world’s largest container ships that travel directly from both the East and West Coasts of the United States.

Covering 73 hectares in the Lach Huyen terminal area of Hai Phong City, the port was inaugurated in early April 2025 after more than 30 months of construction. Launched in August 2022, the project involved over 1,500 workers and collaboration with 100 contractors and consultants, and it was completed two months ahead of schedule.

Experts have recognized this as one of Vietnam’s deepest private-funded seaport projects, marking a significant milestone in the development of the country’s logistics and maritime transport infrastructure.

The terminal's quay is 900 meters long, with depths ranging from -16.8m to -18.4m, allowing for the simultaneous docking of two ultra-large container ships up to 200,000 DWT (18,000+ TEU) and 400 meters in length.

Piers 5 and 6 are outfitted with cutting-edge technology, making Hateco Hai Phong the country’s first smart container terminal. It boasts automated gates, semi-automated berths, and the capacity to handle the world's largest vessels traveling directly between Vietnam and the U.S.

The port is equipped with 10 STS quay cranes, 36 electric e-RTG yard cranes, and 1,350 reefer plugs, ensuring rapid and efficient container handling while remaining energy-efficient and environmentally friendly.

Hateco also implements a smart operational system, including an integrated TOS (Terminal Operating System) for comprehensive management, a real-time operation center, QR and OCR recognition technology, and automated security alerts.

Notably, it is the first port in Vietnam to deploy a Truck Appointment System (TAS), allowing drivers to schedule container pickups efficiently, reduce wait times, and improve operational flow.

The Pier 5 and 6 project at Lach Huyen terminal was invested by Hateco Group and approved under Decision 299/2021 by the Prime Minister. It is the first deep-water seaport infrastructure development in Vietnam funded entirely by private capital.

Once operational, the project is expected to significantly boost international trade and provide new economic momentum for both northern Vietnam and the nation at large.

Nguyen Duc Tho, Vice Chairman of Hai Phong People’s Committee, noted that cargo volume through Hai Phong Port increases annually by 12-15%, reaching 190 million tons in 2024 and projected to hit 212 million tons in 2025.

The Lach Huyen terminal is planned as an international gateway and transshipment hub, featuring container, bulk, liquid/gas cargo terminals, international passenger docks, and public service piers. It is capable of handling 18,000 TEU container ships, 100,000-ton bulk carriers, 150,000-ton tankers, and cruise ships up to 225,000 GT.

By 2030, Lach Huyen is expected to have 13 to 16 terminals (14 to 18 berths), handling between 61.4 and 90 million tons of cargo annually, along with 10,500 to 11,000 passengers.

According to the Vietnam Maritime Administration, Vietnam’s seaport system is expected to handle 864.4 million tons of cargo in 2024, up 14% from 2023.

Hateco's new container port marks a strategic milestone in Northern Vietnam’s logistics landscape. With its large-scale capacity, modern automation, sustainable orientation, and global connectivity through major shipping lines like Maersk and Hapag-Lloyd, it exemplifies the pioneering role of the private sector in developing Vietnam’s maritime infrastructure.

The port's launch is a pivotal development in the country’s maritime sector, poised to enhance global trade and spur economic growth throughout Vietnam.

Hoang Ha