Pioneering Urban Flood Control: Đèo Cả Partners with Japanese Conglomerate to Build TBM-Style Tunnels

During the meeting, Mr. Hideki Yukimura, CEO of IHI Corporation, acknowledged Vietnam’s vast potential for large-scale infrastructure projects. However, he noted that these projects face significant technical, technological, and financial challenges.

IHI’s representative expressed interest in entering the Vietnamese market, leveraging their unique capability as one of the few Japanese firms equipped to manage the entire project lifecycle—from preliminary design and consulting to construction, maintenance, and warranty. In this context, IHI views Deo Ca as a strategic partner in Vietnam.

Both parties aim for three key objectives: First, co-investing in PPP++ projects, where IHI acts as both investor and contractor to maximize technological expertise and financial strength. Second, collaborating on large-scale, complex bridge and tunnel projects requiring advanced technology, an area where IHI’s international experience shines. Third, partnering in the management, operation, and maintenance of major bridges in Vietnam.

Mr. Yukimura emphasized IHI’s interest in projects such as the Dai Ngai Bridge, Cat Lai Bridge, and PPP initiatives involving operation and maintenance. IHI is also in discussions with Vietnam’s Directorate for Roads regarding bridge maintenance solutions, aiming to finalize upgrade projects in the country.

Mr. Mai from Deo Ca proposed collaborating on underground infrastructure to address urban flooding, utilizing dual-purpose TBM tunnels for transportation and drainage, combined with pumping systems to direct water from urban areas to rivers and lakes.

IHI’s representative confirmed their readiness to cooperate, citing their expertise in hydraulic projects and valve production in Japan. IHI is prepared to join Deo Ca in developing solutions once the concept is finalized. Mr. Yukimura also highlighted IHI’s experience in bidding for major hydraulic projects in Vietnam.

Both parties agreed to prioritize key infrastructure projects in areas such as large bridges and urban railways. In 2025, Deo Ca plans multiple site visits to Chongqing, China, to study infrastructure development models integrating urban planning, transportation connectivity, and riverbank management. The focus will be on flood control solutions for the Yangtze and Jialing Rivers, renowned for blending modern transportation technology with natural landscapes.

These visits coincide with the Deo Ca – Van Phu consortium’s assignment to research and propose the Red River Landscape Avenue project, valued at approximately VND 300 trillion. However, by late December 2025, Deo Ca and MIK Group withdrew from the consortium.