Vietnam Poised to Harness AI Wave, World Bank Report Highlights

A recent World Bank (WB) report highlights Vietnam's readiness to harness the artificial intelligence (AI) wave. Notably, Vietnam is identified as one of the few economies outside the European Union (EU) to have adopted a comprehensive AI regulatory framework as early as 2025. This framework employs a risk-tiered approach, similar to the EU AI Act, imposing different obligations based on whether an AI system poses "unacceptable," "high," "low," or "minimal" risks. This approach is viewed as a strategic step towards ensuring safe and transparent AI governance. Under its one-party system, Vietnam has prioritized state-led technological development and adoption as a key driver of economic growth. The early establishment of AI regulations is seen as a move aimed at both fostering domestic industries and gaining international credibility. Furthermore, the designation of October 15 as "Vietnam Digital Citizen Day" signifies the nation's strategic positioning of digital technology dissemination and its integration into citizens' lives. Progress in specific application areas is also being reported, such as an exhibition event spotlighting the use of AI and digital technologies in healthcare. These developments can be viewed as part of Vietnam's efforts to integrate technological innovation and translate it into socio-economic development amidst its rapid economic growth. Particularly, in the context of complex geopolitical relations with China, strengthening autonomy and international competitiveness in advanced technology fields like AI holds significant importance for Vietnam's national strategy.