Vietnam's Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City unveil new tech market and digital SME programs

Hanoi’s Science and Technology Department proposed a new market mechanism that shifts from input‑based support to a model where the city acts as the first customer, issuing orders, assigning tasks and hiring technology services. Six solution groups were outlined, including publishing technology problem statements, task delegation to firms, outcome‑based service contracts and preferential treatment for small and medium‑size enterprises. Pilot projects are planned for digital governance, data and AI, digital infrastructure and information security, backed by an initial 30 billion VND investment.

Ho Chi Minh City introduced tighter criteria for foreign direct investment, prioritising high‑tech projects that deliver knowledge transfer, workforce training and links with Vietnamese firms. The city highlighted Intel’s two‑decade presence – a $4.1 billion investment, 6,500 high‑tech jobs and over $110 billion in export value – as a model of strategic FDI. Officials noted a shift from low‑cost competition toward attracting innovative, research‑driven investors such as Intel and Bosch.

The city also released a plan to support at least 100,000 digital SMEs by 2030. The programme will select 200 showcase firms, expand 5G coverage in industrial zones, provide access to labs and open data portals, and simplify financing for ERP, CRM and consulting services. A dedicated advisory network of 500 experts will help SMEs overcome resource and skill gaps, ensuring digital transformation generates real productivity and revenue gains.