Within the framework of the Vietnam International Sourcing Fair (VIS 2025) and the Northern European business delegation’s visit to Vietnam, the Swedish business delegation participated in a trade promotion and logistics development program in Hai Phong.
On the afternoon of September 9, the Hai Phong Department of Industry and Trade and the Swedish delegation held a working session with the Hai Phong Logistics Association to discuss cooperation opportunities and business connections with Gothenburg Port (Sweden) and the Vietnamese business community in Sweden in the fields of investment, trade, and logistics services.
Strengthening Logistics Links and Green Infrastructure
Both sides exchanged ideas on establishing direct maritime routes between Gothenburg Port and Hai Phong’s port system. Discussions also focused on promoting investment in green logistics infrastructure, distribution centers, and import–export support services, as well as sharing international best practices in port management, supply chain optimization, and human resource development for high-quality logistics.
During the event, Mr. Pham Tuan Hai, Deputy Director of the Hai Phong Department of Industry and Trade, emphasized that Hai Phong is the only locality in Vietnam that integrates all six transportation modes — sea, road, rail, air, inland waterways, and pipeline systems. The city aims to become an international logistics hub for the Northern Coastal Region and ASEAN.
Mr. Hai also highlighted the strong partnership between Hai Phong and Gothenburg Port, reaffirming the department’s commitment to working alongside the Hai Phong Logistics Association and international partners to attract investment and develop a sustainable, modern logistics ecosystem.
Sweden’s Perspective: A Gateway for Direct Sea Routes
Mr. Jacob Minnhagen, representative of Gothenburg Port (Sweden), expressed his strong impression of Hai Phong’s development potential and the expectation of establishing direct sea routes between the two ports.
He noted that Gothenburg Port is Sweden’s main trade gateway, handling about 30% of the country’s total import–export volume, with over 15,000 vessel calls annually, connecting to more than 150 global ports.
“We believe that linking our ports will not only strengthen bilateral trade but also help businesses on both sides reduce logistics costs and improve supply chain efficiency,” Mr. Minnhagen said.
Toward Sustainable and Integrated Development
At the meeting, Mr. Tran Tien Dung, Chairman of the Hai Phong Logistics Association, representing the local logistics business community, shared that Hai Phong’s logistics enterprises are actively digitalizing operations and pursuing green logistics models.
He emphasized that connecting with Gothenburg Port will be a breakthrough step to expand maritime transport networks to Europe and enhance Vietnam’s logistics competitiveness in global markets.
The association proposed that the city facilitate the development of an integrated multimodal logistics center serving as a regional trade hub, while also committing to collaborate on training programs, technology adoption, and joint investments with Swedish partners.
Earlier that morning, the Swedish delegation visited the Tan Cang Hai Phong International Container Terminal (TC-HICT) — one of the most modern deep-water ports in northern Vietnam, capable of accommodating large container vessels. The two sides discussed the potential of launching direct container shipping routes to Northern Europe.