Vietnam’s Sun Group has signed a partnership agreement with Singapore-based Changi Airports International (CAI) for the latter to operate the Phu Quoc International Airport, aiming to introduce the country’s first “airport destination” model, according to a press release.
CAI, part of the Changi Airport Group, will provide design advisory services and also be involved in the development of a Concept of Operations (CONOPS), prior to taking on the full operational management of the airport, said Saturday’s announcement.
Phu Quoc is an island off Vietnam’s south-west coast and forms part of Kien Giang province. It is home to the Corona Resort & Casino, one of two existing casino complexes in the country – alongside the Grand Ho Tram casino resort – currently permitted to offer gambling to economically qualified local residents.
Sun Group is also the promoter of a new casino resort in the Van Don Economic Zone in Quang Ninh province. Construction work began last December.
Vietnamese airline Sun PhuQuoc Airways, controlled by Sun Group, is to launch on March 29 its first international route, connecting Phu Quoc and Taipei in Taiwan, according to a January announcement.
The partnership will see CAI support the expansion of international flight connectivity and the development of non-aeronautical revenue streams, including retail, food and beverage, and duty-free offerings, according to the release.
The airport is set to adopt the “Changi standard”, reflecting a model that positions airports as integrated destinations featuring entertainment, cultural experiences and commercial attractions, it added.
The agreement comes as Sun Group accelerates expansion of Phu Quoc International Airport ahead of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) summit, to take place in the island in 2027.
The project includes a second runway, a new Terminal 2, a VIP terminal and expanded apron infrastructure. Capacity is expected to reach 24 million passengers annually, with potential to increase to 50 million.
Eugene Gan, chief executive of CAI, said in prepared remarks: “We are impressed by Sun Group’s vision for developing Phu Quoc as the next upcoming travel destination.”
He added: “Its integrated tourism and entertainment eco-system provides a strong foundation for the long-term development of Phu Quoc International Airport as a key gateway for the island.”
Sun Group said the partnership aligns with its strategy to build an integrated aviation–tourism ecosystem, with potential replication in future airport developments in other parts of Vietnam.
