Growth and Prosperity in Vietnam’s rising era

By implementing comprehensive digital transformation, promoting innovation and developing a skilled workforce, Vietnam can harness its potential and contribute to the growth and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region.

Ms.Linda Tan, President of SEMI Southeast Asia (SEMI SEA), shared with The World & Vietnam Report about Vietnam's contribution to the digital development process and promoting innovation in the Asia-Pacific region.

Growth and Prosperity in Vietnam’s rising era
Bà Linda Tan, Chủ tịch Hiệp hội Bán dẫn Đông Nam Á (SEMI SEA).

How do you assess the opportunities for digital development and innovation in Vietnam at the present time, particularly in the semiconductor industry? What are Vietnam’s strengths and challenges?

Vietnam’s semiconductor industry is well-positioned for growth, driven by a large and young skilled workforce graduating from technology universities such as Hanoi University of Science and Technology (HUST), Hanoi University of Technology - Vietnam National University, Hanoi (VNU- UET).

The government’s decision to establish the National Innovation Center (NIC) helps promote research, development, support for startups, and creates strategic advantages in key Asian markets. However, there are still challenges, such as skill gaps (the disparity between employees’ current skills and those required by organizations), intellectual property protection, and regional competition.

Nevertheless, I believe that Vietnam’s proactive approach and dynamic workforce create a bright future for the country’s semiconductor industry.

In your opinion, how does the innovation ecosystem, especially within the semiconductor industry, impact Vietnam’s economic development?

The innovation ecosystem within Vietnam’s semiconductor industry plays a crucial role in the country’s economic development. By fostering cutting-edge research and development, it not only enhances technological capabilities but also attracts foreign investment and boosts local startups.

This ecosystem encourages collaboration between universities, research institutions, and private enterprises, facilitating knowledge transfer and skill development. Moreover, a thriving semiconductor sector can lead to job creation, particularly in high-skilled areas, contributing to the overall growth of the economy. As the demand for semiconductors continues to rise globally, Vietnam has the potential to position itself as a key player in the supply chain, further integrating into the global market.

Ultimately, a robust innovation ecosystem in the semiconductor industry will drive sustainable economic growth, enhance competitiveness, and improve the standard of living for the Vietnamese population.

In the coming time, what should the Vietnamese business community, particularly in the semiconductor sector, do to promote the innovation ecosystem, thereby contributing to Vietnam’s economic development in the new era of rising?

To effectively promote the innovation ecosystem and contribute to Vietnam’s economic development in this new era, Vietnam should focus on several key strategies:

Invest in targeted R&D: Vietnam should allocate resources to R&D in specialized areas like Advanced Packaging and Test, which is a growing area with high demand, and also focus on developing semiconductor solutions for AI and IoT applications by collaborating with universities and research institutions to drive breakthroughs and elevate the industry.

Foster Collaboration: Encouraging partnerships between private, academic, and public institutions modelled after successful playbooks in other countries can create a more integrated innovation ecosystem.

Growth and Prosperity in Vietnam’s rising era
The government’s decision to establish the National Innovation Center (NIC) helps promote research, development, support for startups, and creates strategic advantages in key Asian markets. (Photo: NIC)

Enhance Skill Development: The semiconductor sector needs a skilled workforce.

Local enterprises should invest in training programs and internships to equip employees with the latest skills and knowledge. Collaborating with educational institutions to align and bridge the gap with industry needs will ensure a steady talent pipeline. Offering scholarships or exchange programs to train Vietnamese students in leading semiconductor programs abroad, such as SEMI Regional Student Bootcamp, will give the students more exposure and cross-cultural learning experience.

Strengthen Intellectual Property Regime: Advocating for solid protection of IP rights will encourage innovation by ensuring companies can safeguard their inventions and investments. This will create a more secure environment for companies to develop and commercialize new technologies.

Engage in Global Networks: Actively participating in international forums and networks using the SEMI global platform can provide valuable connections and opportunities for collaboration. This exposure can help Vietnamese companies stay abreast of global trends and technologies in the semiconductor industry. By implementing these strategies, Vietnam can significantly enhance the innovation ecosystem in the semiconductor field, ultimately contributing to the country’s economic growth and positioning Vietnam as a competitive player in the global market.

Looking further with the APEC, how do you evaluate the achievements in digital development and innovation across these economies, especially in the semiconductor industry? What can Vietnam learn from and contribute to the AsiaPacific region?

APEC provides a valuable platform for member economies to share best practices and collaborate in digital development and innovation. Vietnam can learn from the achievements of other APEC members, particularly in the semiconductor industry, to accelerate its own progress and become a more significant player in the global technology landscape. By embracing inclusive digital transformation, fostering innovation, and developing a skilled workforce, Vietnam can leverage its potential and contribute to the growth and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region.

Thank you very much!

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