Vietnam and Australia are expanding bilateral cooperation in digital technology and artificial intelligence (AI), with both countries seeking closer collaboration on research, investment, workforce development and technology transfer.
Discussions at a recent forum in Hanoi focused on practical partnerships in AI, semiconductors and innovation, alongside measures to strengthen links between government agencies, research institutions, businesses and investors.
The Vietnam–Australia forum on investment and development cooperation in digital technology and AI was organised on 12 October by the Department of Digital Technology and Artificial Intelligence under Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Technology and the Vietnam-Australia Scholars and Experts Association. The event followed a memorandum of understanding signed on 10 August 2026 at the University of Technology Sydney to deepen cooperation between the two countries’ technology and innovation ecosystems.
Focus on practical digital collaboration
Officials and participants highlighted the importance of developing projects that deliver measurable outcomes and support broader digital transformation goals. Discussions centred on technology research, commercialisation, investment cooperation and skills development, particularly in AI and semiconductor technologies.
The forum also marked the launch of V-bridge, a platform intended to connect organisations and businesses across the Vietnam–Australia technology ecosystem. The initiative is expected to support information exchange, business matching and cooperation on emerging technologies.
Vietnam has increasingly prioritised digital transformation and AI adoption as part of its wider economic development agenda. Recent initiatives linked to AI-driven digital development and policies supporting innovation and productivity improvements have positioned the country as an expanding market for technology cooperation and investment.
Semiconductors and AI identified as priority sectors
Speaking at the event, representatives from both countries identified semiconductors, AI and cybersecurity as areas with significant potential for collaboration. Australian organisations expressed interest in supporting Vietnam’s digital development by sharing expertise and engaging in investment and technology partnerships.
Vietnamese officials emphasised that the country’s growing engineering workforce and increasing demand for advanced technologies create opportunities for deeper cooperation. Australia’s research institutions, universities and innovation ecosystem were also recognised as valuable partners for technology transfer and joint development projects.
Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Le Xuan Dinh said cooperation should focus on practical initiatives that connect research and product development with market demand and workforce training needs. He noted that AI projects should prioritise data quality, reliability and governance, while semiconductor cooperation could include chip design, verification, pilot production support and testing.
Strengthening regional digital ecosystems
Participants also discussed the need for stronger operational arrangements and information-sharing mechanisms to support cross-border partnerships. Officials called for regular updates on technological capabilities and market demand, alongside technical and commercial support for participating organisations.
The Ministry of Science and Technology said it would continue supporting the initiative by facilitating resource connections, providing policy guidance and helping address implementation challenges within its remit.
Two panel discussions examined opportunities in AI, semiconductors and innovation, as well as pathways for investment, commercialisation and business expansion. Around 10 digital technology products from Vietnam’s Make in Vietnam programme and Australia were also presented during the forum, enabling organisations to connect with potential partners and investors.
The collaboration reflects Vietnam’s broader ambition to strengthen its digital economy and international technology partnerships. The country has also been exploring opportunities linked to digital finance and emerging technologies as part of efforts to position itself as a regional hub for digital assets.
This article is created with the assistance of OpenGov AI.