An image of Phu Quoc International Passenger Port. — Photo phuquoc.gov.vn

KIEN GIANG (Biz Hub) — A ceremony marked the start of construction on the Phu Quoc International Passenger Port in the Mekong Delta province of Kien Giang on April 29.

Speaking at the opening ceremony, Minister of Transport Dinh La Thang highlighted the significant role of the work in promoting local tourism development.

The port will be built on 180 ha in the district's Duong Dong town, with 2.8 ha allocated onshore for the passenger terminal and other buildings and 176.5 ha of water surface set to hold a wharf, a breakwater and other necessary facilities.

The project will be carried out between 2015 and 2017 at a total cost of over VND1.64 trillion (US$76.4 million) under the Built-Operate-Transfer (BOT) model, with VND647 billion ($30.1 million) to come from the local budget. The State budget will provide nearly VND477 billion ($22.2 million) and the remainder will be sourced from other sources.

The port will be designed to handle cruise liners carrying 5,000-6,000 visitors and 20,000-tonne cargo ships.

As one of the major infrastructure projects in the province, the Phu Quoc International Passenger Port is expected to stimulate socio-economic development in the locality and the Mekong Delta in general, especially in the field of tourism.

Phu Quoc, also known as Pearl Island, is the largest island in Viet Nam, with a total area of about 580 square kilometres. It has become well-known for its stunning beaches, untouched natural environment, relaxed atmosphere, friendly and easygoing local people, and fantastic scuba diving and snorkeling. — VNS