Vietnam’s Phu Quoc is preparing for a new phase of tourism development as the island moves forward with its first private light rail system ahead of APEC 2027. Connecting Phu Quoc International Airport, the future APEC Convention and Exhibition Center and the island’s southern resort corridor, the 17.59-kilometre rail network is expected to improve visitor mobility, reduce travel times and strengthen Phu Quoc’s position as one of Southeast Asia’s leading island tourism destinations.
Phu Quoc Launches Its First Private Light Rail Project
Phu Quoc, Vietnam’s largest island, has become one of the country’s fastest-growing tourism destinations, attracting visitors with its beaches, luxury resorts, marine attractions and expanding hospitality sector.
The planned private light rail system marks a significant addition to the island’s transport infrastructure. Covering approximately 17.59 kilometres, the network will provide a direct transport link between Phu Quoc International Airport, the planned APEC Convention and Exhibition Center and major tourism developments in the southern part of the island.
The project forms part of broader preparations for the APEC Economic Leaders’ Meeting scheduled to take place in 2027.
Airport Connectivity Set to Improve Visitor Travel
Phu Quoc International Airport serves as the island’s primary gateway for domestic and international travellers. As visitor numbers continue to grow, improving transport between the airport and major accommodation zones has become an important focus.
The light rail system will offer a dedicated connection that reduces dependence on road transport while providing faster access to resorts, conference facilities and tourism districts.
Visitors arriving for leisure holidays, business events and international conferences are expected to benefit from more efficient transfers between key destinations across southern Phu Quoc.
APEC 2027 Drives Infrastructure Development
Hosting APEC 2027 has accelerated infrastructure planning across the island.
The future APEC Convention and Exhibition Center will become one of the rail network’s central stations, creating direct access for delegates, government representatives, business travellers and event participants arriving through the airport.
The improved transport system is expected to support large-scale international events while also serving tourists long after the summit concludes.
The project complements ongoing investments in accommodation, hospitality services and tourism infrastructure across the island.
Southern Resort Areas Become More Accessible
The southern coastline of Phu Quoc is home to many of the island’s luxury resorts, entertainment complexes and beachfront developments.
The light rail line will improve access between these tourism districts, making it easier for visitors to move between hotels, beaches, shopping areas and recreational attractions without relying exclusively on private vehicles or taxis.
Improved connectivity also supports multi-stop travel across the island, allowing visitors to explore different attractions during a single holiday.
Sustainable Mobility Supports Tourism Growth
Modern public transport plays an increasingly important role in destination planning across Asia’s leading tourism markets.
The introduction of a light rail system provides an alternative transport option that can help manage growing visitor numbers while improving mobility across one of Vietnam’s busiest island destinations.
By connecting the airport, convention facilities and tourism districts, the project supports more efficient visitor movement and strengthens the island’s overall transport network.
Phu Quoc Continues to Diversify Its Tourism Appeal
Beyond its beaches, Phu Quoc offers visitors a variety of travel experiences including marine activities, island excursions, seafood dining, cultural attractions and nature-based tourism.
Popular attractions include Bai Sao Beach, Hon Thom Island, Sun World Hon Thom Nature Park, Phu Quoc National Park and local fishing villages. Cable car services connecting islands in the An Thoi Archipelago continue to attract domestic and international visitors.
Business tourism is also expected to expand alongside leisure travel as new conference and exhibition facilities become operational.
Transport Infrastructure Supports Future Visitor Demand
The addition of rail transport complements existing road infrastructure while supporting future tourism growth.
As Phu Quoc welcomes increasing numbers of international travellers, integrated transport links between airports, hotels, convention centres and visitor attractions can help improve the overall travel experience.
The rail network is designed to accommodate both tourism demand and business travel associated with international meetings and events.
Destination Information for Travellers
Phu Quoc is located in Kien Giang Province in southern Vietnam, in the Gulf of Thailand. The local currency is the Vietnamese Dong (VND). Phu Quoc International Airport serves as the island’s primary air gateway with domestic and international connections. The island is also accessible by high-speed ferries from mainland Vietnam. Popular attractions include Bai Sao Beach, Long Beach (Bai Truong), Hon Thom Island, Phu Quoc National Park, VinWonders Phu Quoc, Vinpearl Safari, Grand World Phu Quoc and the An Thoi Archipelago. There is currently no conventional railway on the island, making the planned private light rail system its first rail-based public transport network.
Key Statistics
- The planned light rail network will extend approximately 17.59 kilometres.
- The railway will connect Phu Quoc International Airport with the future APEC Convention and Exhibition Center.
- Southern resort districts will form part of the new transport corridor.
- The project supports infrastructure development ahead of APEC 2027.
- The rail system will be Phu Quoc’s first private light rail network.
Conclusion
Phu Quoc is entering a new stage of tourism development through the construction of its first private light rail system. By connecting the airport, convention facilities and major resort districts ahead of APEC 2027, the project strengthens transport infrastructure while supporting easier travel across one of Vietnam’s fastest-growing island destinations.
