Vietnam Seeks Deeper International Collaboration in AI and Advanced Technologies

Vietnam is actively seeking to deepen international collaboration in artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced technologies, aiming to accelerate economic growth and enhance state management capabilities. In its engagement with South Korea, Vietnam is exploring enhanced cooperation in high-tech sectors, including AI. Korean companies have expressed strong interest in "Vietnam International Sourcing (VIS 2026)" covering food, logistics, digital technology, mechanics, shipbuilding, seafood, and distribution, reflecting increasingly interconnected economic ties. From a growing trade relationship and expanding supply chains to new investment in semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and green energy, cooperation between the two economies is broadening in both scale and scope, opening up new opportunities for higher-value production and stronger links between businesses. Cooperation with France is progressing with a proposal for VNREDSat-2, building on the success of the VNREDSat-1 satellite. The two sides have discussed technological options, resources, and an implementation roadmap, with a view not only to developing a new-generation satellite but also to increasing Vietnam’s level of participation and technological capabilities. Japan is a key partner in promoting science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation through concrete projects, including joint research and the development of Vietnam's innovation ecosystem. With Russia, Vietnam sees favorable conditions for a more substantive, selective, and strategically focused new phase of science and technology cooperation, built on decades of mutual trust and complementary strengths. Domestically, the digital transformation in the legal profession in Ho Chi Minh City emphasizes creating working methods where technology serves people, while lawyers retain control and responsibility for service quality. This is particularly crucial in a metropolis with a large-scale economy and diverse legal needs. During his visit to China and Guangxi, General Secretary of the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee and President To Lam expressed a desire to further expand cooperation, particularly with border localities, in areas including AI. The Ministry of Science and Technology is committed to strengthening intellectual property protection and enforcement, a vital element for fostering innovation. The government's role is shifting from direct funding to creating an enabling environment by developing infrastructure, platforms, standards, and markets, while coordinating the innovation ecosystem. Innovation and technology diffusion should also go hand in hand, particularly by bringing AI, digital, and green technologies to small- and medium-sized enterprises as well as traditional sectors. AI is increasingly being adopted by banks to support various functions, from customer service and credit approval to fraud detection and risk management. As the technological gap narrows, a new question arises: what will determine banks' competitive advantage in the AI era? By 2030, Vietnam aims for 60% of businesses to use AI for efficiency improvements and for all civil servants to utilize AI in their work. This strategy treats AI as a core capability, from problem identification to operations, rather than merely retrofitting it into existing processes. Information Source: VietnamPlus English