During a recent meeting with Khanh Hoa authorities, ExxonMobil representatives emphasised their goal of developing a near-zero-emission refinery in line with the global transition toward clean energy.

According to the plan, the project will include components such as a modern petrochemical refinery, storage facilities, a dedicated port, and auxiliary technical areas. Construction of the project is expected to begin in 2031 and its operation will start in 2035.

The project is set to generate about 10,000 direct jobs during the construction phase and maintain over 600 engineers along with 1,500 indirect jobs once it enters stable operation. If implemented in Vietnam, this will be the first near zero-emission chemical plant in the corporation’s global system.

The Khanh Hoa Economic Zone and Industrial Park Management Board introduced ExxonMobil to the development orientation of the South Van Phong area, in line with an adjusted master plan approved by the Prime Minister. The zone prioritises attracting projects in clean industries, new energy, petrochemicals, logistics, and port services, aiming to become a new growth driver for Khanh Hoa and the South-central Coast.

Tran Minh Chien, head of the Khanh Hoa Economic Zone and Industrial Park Management Board, affirmed that the province is committed to accompanying ExxonMobil throughout the project’s research and development process.

“Khanh Hoa will work closely with relevant ministries and agencies to resolve procedural bottlenecks and prepare the best possible conditions so the investor can proceed as soon as approval is granted,” he assured his guests.

The ExxonMobil delegation conducted field surveys at South Van Phong Port, bonded petroleum storage facilities, and the Ninh Tinh area. These sites offer advantages such as large available land, deep-water conditions, favourable infrastructure, and proximity to major transport routes including highways, airports, and planned high-speed rail, as well as international shipping lanes.

Experts note that South Van Phong is one of the few locations in Vietnam suitable for developing large-scale petrochemical complexes, thanks to its strategic position, sheltered natural conditions, stable year-round water depth, and contiguous land reserves that allow for phased expansion.

Founded in 1999, ExxonMobil is one of the world’s leading oil and gas corporations, operating 37 refineries in 21 countries with more than 72,000 employees globally. In 2024, it reported revenues of approximately US$345 billion. In Vietnam, ExxonMobil has previously partnered with Petrovietnam and PVEP to pursue a gas-to-power project from the Blue Whale field. It has also teamed up with Jera and VinaCapital to work on a US$5 billion LNG power plant project in Hai Phong city.

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