Vietnam Approves Master Plan to Boost Research Centers for Strategic Technologies

The Vietnamese government has approved a master plan to expand its research and development infrastructure in strategic technology fields, including digital technologies, next-generation mobile networks, robotics, biotechnology, advanced energy, cybersecurity, marine sciences, and aerospace. The plan aims to enhance the nation's technological innovation capabilities and international competitiveness. According to the plan, by 2030, at least eight national key laboratories will be established and operational in fields such as digital technologies, next-generation mobile networks, robotics and automation, advanced biology and biomedicine, advanced energy and materials, cybersecurity and quantum technologies, marine and ocean sciences and geosciences, and aviation and aerospace. Furthermore, at least four national research and testing centers will be formed for priority areas including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), biology and biomedicine, advanced materials, and high-speed rail and urban rail. By 2030, Vietnam targets the mastery of at least 10 core technologies that directly support the development of strategic technology products and address major national challenges. The plan seeks to accelerate the commercialization of research outcomes and intellectual property generated by the research and testing centers and national key laboratories. It also aims to establish at least 10 innovative startups or science and technology enterprises capable of developing, mastering, and commercializing core technologies, strategic technologies, and strategic technology products. Each national research and testing center and national key laboratory will be required to establish and maintain close collaboration with at least one innovation ecosystem or cluster comprising research institutes, higher education institutions, enterprises, and state management agencies. By 2035, Vietnam targets to further upgrade and expand the network of national research and testing centers and key laboratories, integrated with advanced regional and international research infrastructure networks. Several testing centers and laboratories are expected to achieve regional leadership in strategic technology fields.