Vietnam Approves AI Strategy Aiming for Regional Hub Status by 2030

Vietnam's government has approved a national artificial intelligence (AI) strategy aimed at making the country a regional hub for AI by 2030. The strategy prioritizes AI research and development (R&D) as a core driver for economy-wide transformation. Instead of retrofitting AI into existing products and processes, the plan treats AI as a fundamental capability, integrated from problem identification through design, organization, and operations. This approach signifies a commitment to embedding AI at the heart of Vietnam's development agenda. As part of this initiative, AI is set to be included in the school curriculum, underscoring the nation's focus on nurturing future AI talent and enhancing digital literacy across society. Vietnam has already demonstrated its growing prowess in AI, securing seven medals at the 3rd International Olympiad in Artificial Intelligence. This strategic push aligns with recommendations from Israeli tech experts who have advised Vietnam to prioritize digital education, AI, and green energy. The Vietnamese Communist Party has consistently identified technological advancement as a key national priority, and the AI strategy is poised to be a significant step towards boosting economic growth and international competitiveness. Vietnam, under its one-party system, has experienced substantial economic growth and is actively diversifying its supply chains, reducing reliance on China. Establishing leadership in AI is expected to accelerate this diversification and create new engines for growth.