30 Years of Progress: Celebration of Vietnam Maritime Corporation’s Achievements
On May 10, 2025, Vietnam Maritime Corporation (VIMC), formerly known as Vinalines, celebrated its 30th anniversary and was awarded the Second-Class Labor Medal for its significant contributions to Vietnam’s maritime industry. The ceremony took place at the National Convention Center and was attended by distinguished leaders from the Vietnamese government, international partners, and VIMC’s workforce.
A Journey of Growth and Resilience
Established on April 29, 1995, VIMC was born out of the merger of several shipping and maritime service entities. Initially, the corporation had a modest charter capital and managed a fleet of 49 vessels with a total tonnage of just 400,000 DWT, along with limited port infrastructure. Over the years, VIMC witnessed remarkable growth, peaking with a fleet of 159 vessels contributing to 45% of Vietnam’s national tonnage.
However, the global financial crisis of 2008 challenged VIMC severely, nearly leading the company to bankruptcy. Thanks to decisive government support and internal restructuring, VIMC survived and thrived. The corporation streamlined its operations, focusing on three core areas: port operations, shipping, and maritime services. With a renewed emphasis on modern governance and customer-centric strategies, VIMC rejuvenated itself from an equity deficit to a robust public enterprise with substantial capitalization.
Strategic Investments and Sustainable Development
Today, VIMC operates over 16 key seaports and handles about 30% of Vietnam’s cargo throughput. It is actively engaged in developing major deep-sea ports such as Cai Mep – Thi Vai and Can Gio International Hub Port, aimed at strengthening Vietnam’s position in global maritime logistics.
Looking ahead, VIMC aims to modernize its fleet with environmentally friendly vessels and optimize port operations. The corporation’s plans include expanding logistics services and fostering collaborations with global shipping companies to enhance Vietnam’s maritime connectivity. A focus on a sustainable logistics framework aims to reduce environmental emissions and contribute to the nation’s goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050.
Embracing Digital Transformation
As part of its strategic vision, VIMC is committed to digital transformation. By integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and big data into operations, VIMC seeks to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and minimize environmental impact. This tech-centric approach promises to drive sustainable growth while enabling VIMC to maintain its competitive edge in the maritime sector.
Looking to the Future
The 30th anniversary marks not just a celebration of VIMC’s legacy but also an affirmation of its commitment to fostering economic growth and enhancing Vietnam’s role in international trade. With clear goals for sustainable development and a focus on adopting global standards for green shipping and smart logistics, VIMC is poised to assert its leadership in the maritime industry. The corporation’s journey continues as it navigates into a new era, focused on sustainable practices and global integration.
This milestone underscores VIMC’s evolution into a leading enterprise that contributes significantly to Vietnam’s marine economy, shaping the future of the maritime landscape both locally and globally.
