Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam

Port Overview

Ho Chi Minh City, located in southern Vietnam at approximately 10°46′N, 106°42′E, is the country’s largest and most populous city, with a metropolitan area covering around 2,095 square kilometers—second only to Hanoi in size. As Vietnam’s economic engine, it generates roughly a quarter of the national GDP and serves as the primary financial, commercial, and industrial hub. Strategically positioned near the South China Sea and the Mekong Delta, the city’s port complex, including Cat Lai and Saigon Port, handles an estimated annual container throughput of over 7 million TEUs, making it the nation’s busiest and a key maritime gateway for regional and global trade.

Facilities & Infrastructure

Ho Chi Minh City's main port facilities include key terminals like Cat Lai, which is Vietnam's largest container terminal, and other facilities such as Hiep Phuoc and Nha Be Oil Terminal. The port is equipped with modern cargo handling equipment, including advanced cranes and logistics systems. It offers extensive storage facilities and is capable of handling a wide range of cargo types, from containers to bulk commodities and oil products.

Container Terminals

Ho Chi Minh City Container Terminals

Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam's busiest port, operates multiple container terminals with 21 berths totaling 2,969 meters of quay length. The port complex handles 8.9 million TEUs annually and accommodates vessels up to 80,000 DWT. Major terminals include Cat Lai Terminal (7 berths, 2.5 million TEU capacity) and Saigon Premier Container Terminal (2 berths, 900,000 TEU capacity). Key operators include Saigon New Port Company and DP World. Automation remains limited, with operations primarily using RTGs and reach stackers rather than fully automated systems.

Port Services

Main Services at Ho Chi Minh City Port

• Container Handling: Comprehensive container operations, including loading, unloading, and transshipment, with specialized terminals like Cat Lai for high-volume throughput.
• Cargo Operations: Handling of general cargo, bulk commodities, iron, steel, fertilizers, and oversized/super-weighted equipment.
• Ship Services: Berthing, mooring, and buoy systems for vessels up to 80,000 DWT; support for cruise ships, military vessels, and river tour boats.
• Warehousing: Standardized, secure warehouse and yard facilities with 24/7 security for cargo storage and logistics.
• Customs: Streamlined customs clearance within the port’s Free Trade Zone, offering tax incentives and efficient procedures for importers and exporters.

Global Connectivity

Ho Chi Minh City is Vietnam’s largest port complex, serving as the main maritime gateway for the southern region and the Mekong Delta. Its network includes Saigon Port, Cat Lai Terminal, and Hiep Phuoc Port, connecting to major industrial zones and inland regions. The port offers direct shipping routes to key markets in Asia, Europe, and North America, making it a vital hub for international trade and transshipment in Southeast Asia.

Port Statistics

Ho Chi Minh City Port handled approximately 9.1 million TEUs in 2024, ranking 22nd globally among container ports. The port complex features over 40 berths and covers an area of about 160 hectares. Major international shipping lines such as Maersk, CMA CGM, MSC, and Evergreen operate regular services. The port is a key Southeast Asian hub, supporting Vietnam’s strong export growth and regional connectivity.