This key national project is expected to become a venue for international events and create momentum for vibrant exhibitions events in the future.
From grand idea to iconic structure
The VEC project was approved by the Prime Minister in 2015, and assigned to the Ha Noi authorities for implementation in coordination with ministries, sectors and enterprises, to meet the need for hosting international trade fairs, exhibitions and events as Viet Nam is deepening its international integration.
It is located northeast of the capital, with convenient links to Noi Bai International Airport, national highways, and the planned urban railway lines.
The main exhibition hall, named Kim Quy (Golden Turtle), resembles a golden turtle, one of the four sacred animals in East Asian culture, and is linked to the legend of the divine Kim Quy, who protected the ancient land of Co Loa.
The design mimics the turtle shell along with spiral swirls reminiscent of the ancient Co Loa Citadel, symbolising folk wisdom, cultural identity, and historical depth.
The main exhibition hall, named Kim Quy (Golden Turtle), resembles a golden turtle, one of the four sacred animals in East Asian culture, and is linked to the legend of the divine Kim Quy, who protected the ancient land of Co Loa.
Weighing up to 24,000 tonnes, the massive steel dome roof was installed at lightning speed by 1,000 workers and engineers working around the clock. It is regarded as a new miracle of Viet Nam’s design and construction sector.
The complex demonstrates the intersection between tradition, technology, and urban identity, creating a distinctive architectural landmark on Ha Noi’s journey of renewal.
Along with the main exhibition hall, the No Than (Divine Crossbow) Park, plazas, outdoor exhibition areas, an international-standard conference and wedding centre, and supporting infrastructure have formed a modern, multi-functional complex.
Minister of Culture, Sports and Tourism Nguyen Van Hung stated that the VEC has been identified as a key project of strategic significance, expected to become a world-class exhibition centre. This is not only a cultural facility but also a structure linking economic development with the cultural industries.
Construction began at the end of August 2024, and by the end of June 2025, the two main components - the Kim Quy Exhibition Hall and outdoor exhibition area - had been substantially completed. In August 2025, the VEC demonstrated its capability to host large-scale events such as “V-Concert - Radiant Viet Nam” and “V-Fest - Brilliant Youth”.
Coming up, the venue will continue to welcome a series of grand events including the “8Wonder - Moments of Wonder” mega concert featuring renowned international artists on August 23, the “My Viet Nam” running event expected to draw 20,000 athletes on August 26, the “Viet Nam Within Me” mega concert on August 26, and especially the Socio-economic Achievements Exhibition commemorating the 80th National Day anniversary from August 28 to September 5.
Dr Vo Tri Thanh, Director of the Institute for Brand and Competitiveness Strategy, stated that the project not only meets the needs of integration in the new era but is also a symbol of Viet Nam’s position and ability to connect with the world.
Highlight of the 80th National Day
Under the plan for the Socio-economic Achievements Exhibition on the occasion of the 80th National Day anniversary, the organising committee is working with ministries, sectors and localities to build diverse exhibition spaces, including exhibitions at the Kim Quy Exhibition Hall, outdoor exhibition areas in the North, South, East and West courtyards, and the international exhibition area along with 12 cultural industry sectors.
The exhibition features achievements in various fields: industry-technology, investment-trade, agriculture-rural development, security-defence, foreign affairs, health, education, culture, sports and tourism, while also showcasing Viet Nam’s cultural traditions, abundant resources and products from across the country, as well as representative architectural works from past to present.
Visitors have the opportunity to participate in art programmes, watch films, attend seminars, exchange ideas with artists and prominent figures, and enjoy traditional and modern cultural-artistic activities. Themes such as “Viet Nam-Country-People”, “95 Years of the Party Flag Lighting the Way”, “Prosperous Provinces-Strong Nation”, “Entrepreneurship in Nation Building” recreate the historical journey and development aspirations, alongside exhibition areas on green economy, digital transformation, aviation-space industry, and comprehensive diplomatic activities. The exhibition employs diverse forms, including images, documentaries, 3D models, AR/VR technology and artistic performances.
On August 19, the VEC will be the central hub linking 80 points nationwide in the ceremony to inaugurate and commence work on projects celebrating the 80th National Day anniversary.
In the long term, the VEC is expected to become strategic infrastructure for trade exhibitions, a sector with high added value and increasing global prominence. Many studies show that each dollar spent by tourists at special events can generate a ripple effect two to three times greater than regular tourism, thanks to the combination of accommodation, dining, transport, commerce, and destination promotion services.
