APEC 2027 convention center takes shape on Vietnam’s Phu Quoc Island

Thousands of engineers and workers have been working around the clock on the sprawling complex, which is expected to help establish Phu Quoc as a major destination for international conferences, exhibitions, and entertainment.

According to Sun Group, the project’s developer, the APEC Convention and Exhibition Center had completed 98 percent of its structural work, its entire steel framework, and all roof sheeting as of October 23.

Work is now focused on roofing, facades, and exterior enclosures, with the building’s exterior expected to be finished by the end of 2026.

Tran Minh Son, standing vice-chairman of Sun Group’s board of directors, said the convention center is scheduled to begin trial operations on January 30, 2027, before its targeted completion in late February.

The adjacent multipurpose performance venue, with seating for more than 4,000 people, is expected to be completed by April 30, while 17 hotels serving APEC 2027 are slated for completion by September.

Son said Sun Group and its contractors are committed to securing sufficient funding to complete the projects on schedule.

Landscaping is also underway, with the developer planning to bring in experts from Thailand and China to prepare green spaces and floral displays ahead of the summit in November 2027.

Nicolas Medrano, SOM’s design director for Asia-Pacific operations, said the complex integrates large conference halls with performing arts venues and dining facilities.

Its main hall covers 11,050 square meters, while additional meeting rooms and supporting facilities will allow multiple international events to take place simultaneously.

During APEC 2027, the center will accommodate high-level diplomatic meetings with dedicated security zones, bilateral meeting rooms, lounges for heads of state, and separate access routes.

Afterward, the facilities can be converted for corporate conferences, trade exhibitions, cultural performances, and community events.

Outdoor public spaces and covered walkways will also support cultural activities, open-air exhibitions, and night markets.

The complex is expected to strengthen Phu Quoc’s position as a destination for meetings, incentives, conferences, and exhibitions (MICE), while supporting the island’s long-term tourism and entertainment development.

New shopping mall breaks ground in An Giang

In a related development, Central Retail Vietnam broke ground on the GO! Rach Gia shopping mall in Rach Gia Ward, An Giang Province, on Tuesday, as the province steps up investment in commercial infrastructure to serve APEC 2027.

Covering more than 16,000 square meters, the complex will feature a GO! hypermarket offering over 40,000 essential products, along with restaurants, entertainment areas, convenience stores, and fashion outlets.

The mall is scheduled to open by the end of 2027 as part of the province’s efforts to expand commercial infrastructure ahead of APEC 2027.

Speaking at the groundbreaking ceremony, Nguyen Thanh Phong, standing vice-chairman of the provincial People's Committee, said the project should deliver long-term economic benefits beyond its investment scale.

He urged Central Retail to strengthen ties with local producers, cooperatives, and businesses, helping bring An Giang’s agricultural products, regional specialties, and One Commune One Product (OCOP) goods into modern retail networks.

Such cooperation would expand market access, increase product value, and create new opportunities for local businesses and residents, he said.