Vietnam Advances Towards Technological Self-Reliance in Specialized Semiconductor Chips

For Vietnam, the opportunity presented by unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) lies not only in expanding their applications but, more importantly, in gradually building industrial capacity, mastering technologies and engaging more deeply in global value chains. Nguyen Anh Tuan, Director of the National Centre for Pilot Semiconductor Chip Manufacturing Support under the Ministry of Science and Technology, said that amid increasingly intense global technological competition, the semiconductor industry is not only a high-value-added economic sector but also a foundation for technological self-reliance, national security and economic competitiveness. General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and President To Lam’s upcoming official visit to France is expected to provide fresh momentum for Vietnam-France ties as it comes at a pivotal time for Vietnam’s economic restructuring. Nearly two years after the Politburo issued Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW on December 22, 2024, on breakthroughs in science and technology, innovation and national digital transformation, localities have been focusing on solutions that address specific needs and deliver tangible benefits. One approach Vietnam should prioritise is the application of Big Data, AI and bioinformatics in genetic resource research, thereby shortening the time needed to enter the identification of genes of economic value. "AI Arena: Viet Nam 2026" contest aims to improve students’ ability to use generative AI, design prompts and develop products. Using Google Gemini and Google AI Studio, contestants will analyse problems, develop ideas and create proof-of-concept products within a limited time. Jointly organised by Sea Limited and OpenAI, the contest is expected to provide participants with hands-on experience in artificial intelligence, while also offering a platform to exchange ideas and connect with members of the country’s fast-growing AI and developer community. Although the Political Bureau’s Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW allows pilot schemes for new practical issues and accepts risks and delays in science, technology and innovation, concerns over risks and responsibility persist. Experts said the Mekong Delta region does not lack data, but valuable information collected by government agencies, universities, businesses, projects and communities is scattered across different locations and formats, making it difficult to access, compare and use effectively. Vietnam needs to step up semiconductor workforce training to meet growing market demand and enhance its capacity to participate in the global technology value chain, experts said, highlighting the importance of closely linking training with businesses, production and technological research.