Vietnam backs technology research and expands local digital services

Two research institutions in Ho Chi Minh City have received funding of ₫85 billion and nearly ₫96 billion as Vietnam supports technology development alongside wider access to digital public services, according to VNA. The initiatives implement the Politburo’s Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW, dated December 22, 2024.

The ₫85 billion allocation went to the Advanced Materials Technology Institute at Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City. Deputy Director Doan Le Hoang Tan said the five-year investment would help researchers take projects through to completion and technology transfer. The Research and Development Centre at the Saigon Hi-Tech Park received nearly ₫96 billion. Its director, Trinh Xuan Thang, said its work includes chip fabrication and sensors incorporating AI and the Internet of Things.

In Da Nang, a municipal policy allows annual innovation support of up to ₫3 billion per business, covering no more than two projects. For strategic technology projects, assistance with equipment purchases can reach 50%, or 70% where technology transfer contracts are involved.

In Minh Ngoc commune, Tuyen Quang province, officials and community representatives are helping residents use online administrative services and electronic identification applications, including through repeat visits. VNA reported that the commune’s Public Administration Service Centre had handled nearly 3,000 applications after operating for more than a year; only eight were lodged in person. Incoming dossiers had a digitisation rate of 99.91%, and all processing results were digitised.

The Nghe An Border Guard has also placed QR codes in communal spaces so residents can send information anonymously through an electronic mailbox system. Submissions can include photographs and reports of suspected offences, which officers receive, assess and verify before handling them under regulations.