Cat Lai, the terminal that handles roughly half of all Vietnamese container volume, anchors the port of Ho Chi Minh City (VN SGN), the country's busiest box gateway. Spread along the Saigon River and its branches, the port moves an estimated 7–8 million TEU a year across facilities that include Cat Lai — some 1.2 km of quay, around 20 ship-to-shore cranes and about 12 m depth — and the Saigon Premier Container Terminal. Typical cargo is consumer goods, garments, electronics, furniture and refrigerated agricultural produce from the Mekong Delta and the surrounding industrial parks. Hinterland distribution leans heavily on road haulage and an extensive inland-barge network, while rail links remain weak. Customs and export clearance for international container traffic are well established, and in 2022 Cat Lai became Vietnam's first 'green port' by switching to electric handling equipment. Because river depth caps vessel size, the largest deep-sea ships call instead at nearby Cai Mep (Ba Ria–Vung Tau), the natural alternative for direct Europe and North America services. For cargo bound to greater Ho Chi Minh City, however, VN SGN remains the first choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the UN/LOCODE of Ho Chi Minh City?▼
The UN/LOCODE of Ho Chi Minh City is VN SGN. This international code identifies ports and logistics locations worldwide.
Where is the port of Ho Chi Minh City located?▼
The port of Ho Chi Minh City is located in Vietnam (South China Sea; North Pacific Ocean).
What is the size of the port Ho Chi Minh City?▼
Ho Chi Minh City is a Medium harbor of type River (Natural).
What is the channel depth of Ho Chi Minh City?▼
The channel depth of Ho Chi Minh City is 9.4 meters.
The information on this page is based on publicly available transport and infrastructure data. The logistics significance of a location may change. All information without warranty.