by DUONG NAM HOANG 02/12/2025, 11:34

Phu Quoc International Airport and APEC Conference Center set new construction milestones

As Phu Quoc positions itself as an international commerce and tourism hub, two large-scale projects, the Phu Quoc International Airport and APEC Conference Center are advancing at remarkable speed. Key components have met or exceeded targets, laying the groundwork for hosting APEC 2027.

The APEC Conference Center blends Eastern culture with advanced technology, creating a national architectural landmark

The APEC Conference Center project, with an investment of VND 21,860 billion, is a landmark facility for national foreign affairs. Covering 16,06 hectares, the complex includes a Convention and Exhibition Center, Multipurpose Theater and park. Notably, the Multipurpose Theater hás a 17,200-square-meter roof, six above-ground floors and one basement, accommodating 4,094 seats. Designed by leading US consultants SOM and Apeiro, the theater adopts a circular form symbolizing Heaven, positioned beside the square-shaped Convention Center representing Earth. The  center spans 157,375 square meters over four floors and a basement. The highlight is a column-free ballroom that spans 81 meters and covers 11,050 square meters, recognized as the world’s largest, surpassing Caesars Forum in Las Vegas.

Both structures embrace Eastern cultural aesthetics with Dragon-scale roof cladding and intricate carved motifs, while integrating state-of-the-art engineering and equipment. The design not only enhances visual appeal but also optimizes natural light, ventilation and harmony with the surrounding landscape, shaping spacious and flexible indoor-outdoor connectivity. The complex represents a sophisticated blend of art, symbolism and culture, reflecting its grand scale and substantial  investment.

Despite the architectural and technical complexity, overall progress at the Convention Center and Multipurpose Theater has maintained approximately 33% of the total construction volume. According to the Sun Group report, the Convention Center (Zone S3) has completed 100% of its foundation and 31% of its structural frame. Completing the foundation is a crucial prerequisite for ensuring technical safety for the massive column-free structure. Steel installation is expected to complete by January 31, 2026, exterior works by June 30, 2026 and interior finishing by January 31, 2027. Meanwhile, the Multipurpose Theater (Zone S2) has reached 95% foundation completion and 20.5% structural framing. Its steel structure, exterior and interiors follow the same timeline.

The synchronized interior completion in Q1/2027 demonstrates the developer's absolute commitment to operational readiness for APEC, while opening a premier venue for future shows, music festivals and international film events.

Airport construction speed is expected to take only 18 months, considered an aviation industry record

At the same time, the Phu Quoc International Airport expansion is also progressing smoothly, particularly in phase 1 for APEC 2027. Since July 2025, key components including the second runway, VIP terminal and Terminal T2 have been implemented with construction intensity reaching up to 700 foundation piles per month.

Under expansion, the airport will meet 4E standards, capable of handling wide-body aircraft such as Boeing 747, 787 or Airbus A350. Progress remains on track: Terminal T2 is 85% structurally complete; the VIP terminal has finished 100% of structural and steel works, along with 10% of MEP installation; Runway No. 2 has reached 30% of total volume; and the cumulative project output is VND 2.370 billion. After just four months, the entire terminal block has been built up to the fourth floor, aiming for full completion by March 2027, a record pace in Vietnam’s aviation industry.

The "lightning-fast" progress of both mega-projects, driven by concentrated resources and effective management, has created a dual momentum for Phu Quoc's transformation. Completing the VIP Terminal and Runway No. 2 before APEC ensures diplomatic and transport infrastructure is ready to welcome heads of state and high-level delegations. Beyond serving a major political event, these developments provide a long-term platform for Phu Quoc to become a leading regional hub for tourism, commerce, conferences and international engagement.

Through outstanding construction efficiency and iconic project quality, Sun Group reinforces its pioneering role in creating sustainable infrastructure values, contributing to Vietnam’s macroeconomic development goals and global standing.