The proposed expressway section spans approximately 56 km through Gia Lai province, about 125 km through Dak Lak province, and around 74 km through Lam Dong province.

Phase one of the project involves a complete four-lane expressway, with a roadbed 24,75 meters wide and a design speed of 100 km/h. The estimated total investment is 76,985 billion VND, to be implemented under a public-private partnership (PPP) model.

Following technical and economic studies, Duc Long Gia Lai Group noted that the Central Highlands region faces economic challenges and low capital recovery potential. Therefore, the group proposes a funding structure where investors contribute 30%, with the state budget providing 70% support.

The group also recommended that the Prime Minister assign one of the three provinces – Gia Lai, Dak Lak, or Lam Dong – as the competent state agency to lead the project's implementation. Furthermore, it requested the Ministry of Finance to advise on allocating public investment capital for the project during the 2026-2030 period.

Ho Chi Minh Road is currently a vital artery through the Central Highlands. Photo: Anh Duy

In response to Duc Long Gia Lai Group Joint Stock Company, the Ministry of Construction assessed that the project will enhance connectivity among economic and social centers in the Central Highlands and South Central Coast regions. This will contribute to socio-economic development while ensuring regional defense and security.

The Ministry of Construction noted that, according to regulations, for a PPP project involving multiple competent authorities and requiring state capital participation, the provincial People's Committees of the relevant localities must report to their respective Provincial People's Councils before agreeing to designate one locality as the competent authority.

Additionally, the Ministry emphasized that the investor needs to clarify the necessity, socio-economic effectiveness, alignment with planning, and resource balancing capabilities.

The Ministry of Construction urged Duc Long Gia Lai Group to work with the People's Committees of Gia Lai, Dak Lak, and Lam Dong provinces. This collaboration aims to report to the Provincial People's Councils to secure consensus on the project study policy and the plan to assign one locality as the competent agency for research and implementation.

Based on the consensus and proposals from the localities, the Ministry of Construction will coordinate and guide the investor in researching and implementing the procedures as regulated.

Anh Duy