Gia Lai Province Aspires to be Quantum Technology Hub, Key to National Digital Strategy

Gia Lai province in Vietnam's south-central region is aiming for a strategic breakthrough in quantum computing, positioning itself as a future key hub for the nation's digital technology strategy. Recently, the "Quang Trung Quantum Decoding Center" was established in Gia Lai province, alongside the launch of Vietnam's quantum talent and human resource development program. This initiative is considered a significant step not only for the province but also for Vietnam's overall long-term digital technology development strategy. Furthermore, Gia Lai province has declared 2026 as the "Quantum Year" and announced the hosting of an international Quantum Computing Hackathon. This aims to gather domestic and international experts and researchers to foster technological innovation. The province is also focusing on nurturing talent to lead future technologies, with programs being prepared for doctoral studies in fields such as Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum technology, and cybersecurity. This endeavor seeks to enhance the nation's capacity to develop and manage future technologies independently. The objective of the quantum technology strategy is to protect technological sovereignty and integrate with the global digital space. This is an essential element for maintaining national security and economic competitiveness in an era of increasing cyber attack and information leakage risks. Under Vietnam's one-party system, long-term technology development plans are being driven by national strategy. The transition to a digital economy is a top priority, with quantum technology expected to play a central role. In its relations with China, strengthening technological independence is also seen as a way to balance geopolitical influence.