APM Terminals, the ports division of Danish shipping group Maersk, has signed a non-binding agreement with Vietnam’s Hateco Group to explore the development and operation of railway freight terminals in northern Vietnam. The initiative aims to strengthen multimodal logistics connectivity and improve the efficiency of the country’s freight transportation network.
Under the agreement, the companies will study the development of a rail freight terminal in Hai Phong, including cargo-handling facilities and storage yards. The plan also covers three additional rail freight locations across northern Vietnam.
The proposed network is intended to connect industrial parks, manufacturing centres and logistics hubs with major transport gateways, including seaports. By integrating rail transportation with existing maritime and logistics infrastructure, the project could provide businesses with more efficient options for moving export and import cargo.
The development is also expected to help reduce pressure on road transport, improve cargo-handling efficiency and support cross-border trade. However, the agreement is non-binding, and the proposed facilities remain subject to further studies and investment decisions.
The agreement was signed during Vietnamese General Secretary and President To Lam’s visit to Denmark, in the presence of senior leaders from both countries. It reflects the growing economic cooperation between Vietnam and Denmark, particularly in transport infrastructure and logistics development.
The proposed rail terminal network builds on the companies’ existing partnership at Hateco Hai Phong International Container Terminal, a deep-water container facility that began operations in 2025 following an investment of approximately US$400 million. The partnership is also expanding into port infrastructure development in Da Nang.
For Maersk, the initiative represents an opportunity to strengthen integrated logistics services beyond ocean shipping, while Hateco aims to expand its role in Vietnam’s transport infrastructure. If implemented, the rail network could improve cargo connectivity, provide additional freight capacity and support Vietnam’s growing participation in international supply chains.