SOWATCO Tri Phuong Port (Bac Ninh) has officially commenced its export customs code operations, providing an inland customs clearance solution that optimizes costs, saves time, and promotes green waterway logistics.

On January 8, 2026, Southern Waterborne Transport Corporation (SOWATCO) held a ceremony to announce Decision No. 1868/QD-CHQ, officially recognizing Tri Phuong – Bac Ky International Container Inland Port (SOWATCO Tri Phuong Port) as a designated site for gathering, inspection, and customs supervision.

With this decision, the export customs code at SOWATCO Tri Phuong Port is now operational. Customs officers are stationed directly at the port to receive documents, inspect, supervise, and process procedures in accordance with current regulations.

The opening of this export customs code offers import-export enterprises a strategic choice for inland clearance. Instead of transporting containers to Hai Phong for processing, businesses can now consolidate cargo at SOWATCO Tri Phuong Port, perform inspections if required, seal, and finalize customs clearance right at the facility. Subsequently, goods are transported by barge to the Hai Phong – Lach Huyen area for international export.

Tangible Benefits for Enterprises

The defining advantage of SOWATCO Tri Phuong Port is the presence of on-site customs forces, enabling businesses to be more proactive with clearance times and reducing dependence on port congestion during peak seasons. For manufacturing plants, completing procedures at an inland consolidation point mitigates risks arising from bottlenecks or scheduling fluctuations at gateway seaports.

Located near key industrial parks (IPs), containers can be returned to the yard immediately after packing, reducing warehouse pressure at factories and increasing production flexibility. Furthermore, the waterway transport solution connecting SWC Tri Phuong with Hai Phong – Lach Huyen can save businesses approximately 20% in transport costs compared to pure road transport in various operational scenarios, while reducing risks of cargo damage and incidental journey costs.

For transporters, forwarders, and shipping lines, this inland clearance point helps shorten vehicle turnaround times, reduces reliance on restricted trucking hours, and limits vehicle waiting times at gateway port areas. The barge-based consolidation model also enhances operational efficiency and provides a stable service alternative for customers.

Operational Capacity and 2026 Expansion Plans

SOWATCO Tri Phuong Port is situated along the Duong River, directly connecting major industrial hubs such as VSIP, Tien Son, Yen Phong, and Que Vo with the Hai Phong – Lach Huyen export gateway via inland waterways. In 2025, the port’s throughput reached 50,346 TEUs, achieving 139% of its target. The port currently operates a fleet of 4 barges with a capacity of 128 TEUs each, capable of receiving up to 512 TEUs simultaneously.

In 2026, SOWATCO Tri Phuong Port plans to further invest in expanding capacity, including:

• Increasing yard area to 10 hectares.
• Extending the pier to 150m to accommodate 3 to 4 barges at once.
• Installing 3 additional specialized cranes and commissioning 4 new barges with a capacity of 160 TEUs each.
• Finalizing ICD licensing procedures and aiming for ISO 14001 (Environmental Management) and ISO 45001 (Occupational Health and Safety) certifications.

With this decision, the export customs code at SOWATCO Tri Phuong Port is now operational.

ABOUT SOUTHERN WATERBORNE TRANSPORT CORPORATION (SOWATCO)

SOWATCO is a leading entity in inland waterway transport and port operations in Vietnam, belonging to the ITL and SOTRANS Group ecosystem. With 50 years of heritage and professional operational expertise, SOWATCO continuously invests in modern port infrastructure and barge fleets, asserting its pioneering role in providing integrated logistics solutions.

ABOUT SOWATCO TRI PHUONG INTERNATIONAL CONTAINER PORT

Tri Phuong – Bac Ky International Container Inland Port (SWC Tri Phuong) is one of SOWATCO’s key strategic projects in the Northern economic region. Equipped with synchronous infrastructure and modern equipment, the port serves as a vital logistics gateway connecting industrial zones in Bac Ninh and Bac Giang directly with international deep-water port systems like Hai Phong and Lach Huyen.

(SOTRANS Group News)