Hanoi, August 20, 2025 — Chodai & Kiso-Jiban Vietnam, in collaboration with Chodai Co., Ltd. (Japan) and Thuyloi University, officially signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) and convened the 2nd Scientific Seminar under the theme “High-Speed Rail: Challenges and Opportunities” at Thuyloi University.
The event took place at an important moment in Vietnam’s strategic transportation infrastructure decision-making process. High-speed rail (HSR) is increasingly recognized as a critical solution to boosting regional connectivity, reducing the demand on road and air transportation, and supporting long-term economic growth. With several major projects under preparation, the desire to acquire current expertise and advanced technologies in the HSR sector has never been greater.
Prof. Dr. Nguyen Trung Viet, Rector of Thuyloi University speaking at the seminar
Attending the ceremony were Mr. Ho Thai Hung, General Director of Chodai & Kiso-Jiban Vietnam and Director of the High-Speed Rail & Urban Railway Innovation Hub (UHRI Hub) under the company; Mr. Keiichi Aoki, Chief Engineer at Chodai Co., Ltd. Japan, who participated online from Japan; Mr. Sekiya Takao, Chief Engineer in charge of the Vietnam region and the International Project Development Division at Chodai Co., Ltd. Japan; Mr. Ohki Hitoshi, General Director of Nippon Steel Vietnam; Mr. Toshio Takebayashi, Chairman of Nippon Sokei; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Tong Tran Tung, Member of the Ministerial Advisory Board at the Ministry of Construction; representatives from Vietnam Railways Corporation, relevant regulatory bodies, scientists, and experts from related enterprises in Vietnam and Japan.
From Thuyloi University, attendees included Prof. Dr. Nguyen Trung Viet, Rector of the University; Assoc. Prof. Dr. Nguyen Ngoc Thang, Dean of the Faculty of Civil Engineering; along with leaders, lecturers from specialized departments and faculties, and students of the university.
Key Highlights of the Event
At the ceremony, Prof. Dr. Nguyen Trung Viet, Rector of Thuyloi University; Mr. Sekiya Takao, Chief Engineer in charge of the Vietnam region and representative of Chodai Co., Ltd. (Japan); and Mr. Ho Thai Hung, General Director of Chodai & Kiso-Jiban Vietnam Co., Ltd., signed and exchanged the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU).
Prof. Dr. Nguyen Trung Viet, Rector of Thuyloi University; Mr. Sekiya Takao, Chief Engineer in charge of the Vietnam region and representative of Chodai Co., Ltd. (Japan); and Mr. Ho Thai Hung, General Director of Chodai & Kiso-Jiban Vietnam Co., Ltd., exchanged MOU.
The cooperation agreement between Thuyloi University, Chodai Co., Ltd. (Japan), and Chodai & Kiso-Jiban Vietnam Co., Ltd. marks a significant milestone in strengthening the partnership between the university and the enterprises. This MOU plays an essential role in promoting comprehensive collaboration in education, scientific research, and the application of advanced technologies in the railway infrastructure sector.
On this occasion, Chodai & Kiso-Jiban Vietnam Co., Ltd. awarded scholarships to the Scholarship Fund and the Scientific Research Program for students of the Faculty of Civil Engineering.
Insights from the Scientific Seminar
Following the signing ceremony, the seminar brought together Vietnamese and Japanese experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss key issues related to HSR planning, design, construction, and materials.
Highlights included:
– Mr. Keiichi Aoki, Chief Engineer at Chodai Co., Ltd. Japan, delivered an online presentation from Japan on the topic “High-Speed Rail Infrastructure—Infrastructure Planning.” With over 40 years of experience in the railway sector, Mr. Aoki shared insights into the differences between high-speed rail and conventional rail systems, introduced international best practices, and emphasized planning philosophies tailored to Vietnam’s specific conditions.
– Dr. Dang Viet Duc, from the Department of Transportation Engineering, Faculty of Civil Engineering, Thuyloi University, presented his analysis of structural types suitable for Vietnam’s conditions. In his presentation, “Discussions on the Design and Construction of High-Speed Railway Bridges in Vietnam’s Context,” he highlighted the feasibility of prestressed reinforced concrete box girders compared to steel truss structures.
– Mr. Ohki Hitoshi, General Director of Nippon Steel Vietnam, delivered a presentation on “Advantages of Steel Structures for the Sub-Structure of High-Speed Railway Bridges,” introducing advanced steel structure solutions for bridge foundations and piers, such as rotary steel piles and composite piles. These technologies have been successfully applied in Japan’s Shinkansen system and show great potential for implementation in Vietnam.
– Dr. Trinh Hoang Son, Deputy Head of the Department of Structures and Materials at the University of Transport Technology, presented his research on “Proposal for the Use of Geopolymer Concrete in High-Speed Rail Projects in Vietnam.” His presentation highlighted the benefits of green concrete (Geopolymer Concrete—GPC) as a sustainable solution, capable of reducing CO₂ emissions by up to 90%, extending the lifespan of structures, and effectively utilizing industrial waste materials.
– Mr. Toshio Takebayashi, Chairman of Nippon Sokei Co., Ltd., presented “Planning and Design of High-Speed Rail Overpasses—International Case Studies,” sharing his experiences in design solutions, risk management, and the application of technical standards in the Mumbai–Ahmedabad High-Speed Rail Project in India, offering valuable insights and lessons for Vietnam.
Strengthening Vietnam’s HSR Capabilities
The seminar concluded with an open discussion among speakers and participants, highlighting Vietnam and Japan’s growing collaboration in high-speed rail development. It also demonstrated Chodai & Kiso-Jiban Vietnam’s solid commitment to innovation, knowledge sharing, and sustainable infrastructure development.
