On the Nam Island construction site in early 2026, the emergence of a new political and economic hub is taking shape at a pace likened by international media to the “speed of light.” By the end of 2025, the APEC Convention & Exhibition Center and the Multipurpose Performance Hall, with a total investment of 21.860 trillion VND, had reached 33% completion in just under six months. According to Sun Group, the project is expected to be finalized by Q1/2027, well in advance of the APEC High-Level Week.
This urgency isn’t solely for a diplomatic event. Speaking at the Phu Quoc Special Economic Zone – Taking Flight with APEC seminar, Dr. Nguyen Anh Tuan, Director of the Institute for Tourism Development Research, emphasized that APEC is a “golden, unique opportunity” for Phu Quoc to soar on the global MICE (Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions) tourism map. These projects are pivotal in transforming the island from a raw resource-dependent destination into a world-class tourism, hospitality, and eco-friendly hub.
Green and Smart Transformation: From Net Zero Commitment to LRT Infrastructure
The shift away from raw resource exploitation and ecological preservation isn’t coincidental. In this new era, “green” is a mandatory standard for Phu Quoc to join the ranks of global destinations. Mr. Tran Minh Khoa, Chairman of the Phu Quoc Special Economic Zone People’s Committee, affirmed that the zone has signed a “Green Transition” commitment with international organizations, aiming for Net Zero with the Green Transition Plan expected to complete in Q1/2026.
Leading experts discuss at the “Phu Quoc Special Economic Zone – Taking Flight with APEC” seminar.
To realize this commitment, Phu Quoc is implementing its “ace” in smart transportation: the LRT urban rail system. With an investment of nearly 9 trillion VND and a length of 18km connecting the airport to the APEC Convention Center, the LRT is a solution to reduce emissions. Operating entirely on electricity, the system cuts emissions by up to 99% compared to personal vehicles and reduces travel time to just 20 minutes.
To welcome thousands of international delegates for APEC 2027, Phu Quoc is elevating its “smart” standards starting at the airport gateway. The expansion of Phu Quoc International Airport, invested by Sun Group for APEC, introduces the Total Airport Management (TAM) model and a biometric system for a “seamless, touchless” journey. With advanced screening technology from Smiths Detection and the modern ICS baggage handling system, check-in times are reduced to just 15-20 seconds per person. The combination of automated parking and underground refueling not only optimizes efficiency but also showcases a city powered by artificial intelligence and big data.
Recently, after Sun Group took over operations, Phu Quoc International Airport also launched the ePass non-stop toll collection system, addressing local congestion, reducing travel times, and enhancing passenger convenience from airport access. This contributes to improved traffic management and urban civilization.
Lessons from Singapore and the “Compact City” Approach
Beyond transportation infrastructure, in the “green-smart” development strategy, an island like Phu Quoc, with 60-70% of its area covered by primary forests, faces the challenge of balancing conservation and development. Dr. Nguyen Si Dung highlights Singapore’s model: strict forest preservation alongside strategic land reclamation for modern infrastructure.
“25% of Singapore’s land area is reclaimed. Without reclamation, Singapore’s size would be comparable to Phu Quoc. If Phu Quoc adopts Singapore-style reclamation, it could match its success. However, it requires talent and a larger population. Singapore has nearly 6 million residents, while Phu Quoc has just over 200,000. To thrive, Phu Quoc must attract a concentrated population,” noted Dr. Nguyen Si Dung.
The 18km LRT line connects the airport to the APEC Convention Center and the southern island area, offering a solution to reduce emissions.
Alongside population attraction, the “compact city” model is key. Dr. Tran Du Lich suggests creating vast green spaces alongside high-rise, modern urban clusters to optimize land use. Here, the LRT serves as the “backbone,” connecting growth hubs, reducing road pressure, and preserving natural landscapes.
Need for a Tailored Blueprint for Strategic Investors
All green and smart ambitions will falter without superior institutional support. Prof. Dr. Pham Trung Luong stresses the need for a “sandbox” mechanism in Phu Quoc to foster innovation. Policies for strategic investors must be more substantive.
APEC 2027 is a historic catalyst for Phu Quoc’s breakthrough with highly innovative mechanisms.
Phú Quốc and APEC 2027: Driving Economic Growth Through Green and Smart Development
APEC 2027 is more than a diplomatic milestone—it’s a historic opportunity for Phu Quoc to redefine its global brand. To ensure this “takeoff” endures beyond the moment, the island is banking on a transformative roadmap anchored in two pillars: Green and Smart. These game-changing infrastructure megaprojects are set to catapult Phu Quoc into a new era of sustainable and innovative excellence.
Vietnam’s Journey Toward Achieving Net-Zero Emissions
Mr. Luong Quang Huy, Head of the Greenhouse Gas Emissions Management and Ozone Layer Protection Division at the Department of Climate Change under the Ministry of Natural Resources and Environment, recently shared insights with *Vietnam Economic Times / VnEconomy* on Vietnam’s strategic roadmap to fulfill its COP26 pledge of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
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This flagship national project, boasting international stature, is conveniently located just 40 km from Hanoi’s city center and 43 km from Noi Bai International Airport.
APEC 2027: Phú Quốc’s Vision for a Green, Smart City Attracting Island Migration?
APEC 2027 is more than a diplomatic milestone—it’s a historic opportunity for Phú Quốc to redefine its global brand. To ensure this “takeoff” endures beyond the moment, the island is banking on a transformative roadmap anchored in two pillars: Sustainability and Smart Innovation. This vision is backed by game-changing infrastructure megaprojects poised to reshape its future.
