DEVELOPING A ROAD TRANSPORT NETWORK CONNECTING SEAPORTS AND INDUSTRIAL ZONES: A STRATEGIC SOLUTION TO OPTIMIZE LOGISTICS COSTS IN THE CENTRAL COASTAL REGION OF VIETNAM

Abstract

This study focuses on the strategic role of the road transport network in connecting seaports and industrial zones (IPs) in the Central Coast of Vietnam, a region with great economic potential but facing challenges of high logistics costs. This context requires infrastructure optimization to enhance competitiveness. The research gap is identified as the lack of comprehensive analytical works focusing on micro-infrastructure (last-mile connectivity) between production clusters and import-export gateways in a specific economic region, instead of just considering macro-national routes. The main objective of the paper is to assess the current situation, identify bottlenecks and propose feasible policy solutions. The research results indicate that the lack of synchronization in planning and quality of direct connecting routes is the main cause of increased transportation costs and time. The article proposes an integrated infrastructure development model, prioritizing public-private partnership (PPP) investment and applying smart transport technology, thereby contributing to creating an effective and sustainable logistics ecosystem for the entire region.