This proposal was submitted to Ho Chi Minh City Urban Railway No. 1 Limited Company (HURC1) on 28/7, following a request from Saigon Co.op to develop essential retail services within the stations.

The nearly 20-km Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien metro line, comprising 14 stations (3 underground, 11 elevated), primarily serves commuters. Currently, the stations lack shopping, dining, and entertainment options.

Passengers waiting for the metro at Binh Thai station on the Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien line. Photo: Thanh Tung

Passengers waiting for the metro at Binh Thai station on the Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien line. Photo: Thanh Tung

According to the Department of Industry and Trade, commercial development within stations will generate revenue, enhance passenger convenience, and encourage public transport use. This model has been successfully implemented in countries like Japan, South Korea, and Singapore, where metro systems are integrated with commercial and entertainment services.

The city aims to have a 355-km metro network by 2035. Early planning and development of modern commercial models around metro stations are crucial to stimulate consumption and maximize urban infrastructure utilization.

Saigon Co.op previously proposed a pilot program offering quick and convenient shopping for metro passengers. The Department of Industry and Trade has advised Saigon Co.op to work directly with HURC1 to integrate their plans with the metro infrastructure development project.

The Ben Thanh - Suoi Tien metro line opened in 12/2024, offering free rides for the first month. In over seven months of operation, it has served over 10 million passengers, averaging over 52,300 riders daily, exceeding its initial target.

Giang Anh