In a bid to catalyse national digital transformation and bolster socio-economic development, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, as Chairman of the National Committee for Digital Transformation, has unveiled the committee’s comprehensive work plan for 2024. This strategic initiative aims to propel Vietnam towards achieving its socio-economic targets for the current period, fostering breakthroughs in various sectors.
The objectives outlined in the work plan underscore a concerted effort to enhance the accountability of organisations and individuals, particularly leaders of state agencies, in driving digital transformation initiatives. The plan prioritises the effective implementation of key programs such as the National Digital Transformation Programme to 2025 and beyond, the e-government development strategies, and the overarching strategy for nurturing a digital economy and society.
Central to the work plan are ambitious targets, including the development of 48,000 digital technology enterprises across localities and the adoption of digital platforms by 60% of businesses in industrial parks and export processing zones. These measures are poised to revolutionise production and business processes, bolstering productivity, operational efficiency, and sustainability efforts.
Moreover, the plan aims to significantly enhance citizen engagement with online public services, targeting a 40% usage rate among adults and the completion of 53 online public services by the government. Ensuring seamless connectivity and interoperability of information systems is also a key focus, with targets set for the integration of administrative procedures and reporting systems across ministries, sectors, and localities.
Crucially, the work plan prioritises the expansion of digital infrastructure, with an emphasis on providing mobile broadband coverage to 100% of villages and hamlets connected to the national power grid. Additionally, robust measures are proposed to bolster information security, with plans to ensure that all ministries, agencies, and local governments utilise secure management support platforms.
To realise these ambitious goals, the National Committee for Digital Transformation has devised a multifaceted approach. This includes intensifying inspections to monitor the progress of digital transformation initiatives, formulating a comprehensive strategy for the development of the semiconductor IC industry, and fostering collaboration with digital technology firms to drive innovation in industrial zones.
Furthermore, the plan underscores the importance of nurturing homegrown digital technology businesses and promoting the adoption of locally developed solutions, particularly in the realm of electronic invoicing to combat tax evasion and revenue losses.
Along the same lines, the 2023 Report on Digital Transformation, launched by Vietnam’s Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) and the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ), sheds light on the intersection of green and digital transitions, guiding enterprises towards sustainable socio-economic growth.
Vietnam’s ambitious digital transformation, led by the MPI’s EDD, is driving the nation’s green economic transition, while the MoIT’s plan focuses on modernizing energy sector operations. With initiatives such as EVN’s deployment of electricity e-meters, Vietnam is poised to lead sustainable energy development in ASEAN.
Similarly, Vietnam’s Enterprise Development Department (EDD) is spearheading a 2021-2025 digital transformation programme, fostering awareness and adoption of digital practices nationwide. While the Report on Digital Transformation 2023 indicates a notable increase in firms’ readiness for digitalisation, this initiative aims to synergise green and digital transitions, fostering sustainable growth. Led by MoIT, a digital transformation plan for the energy sector seeks to modernise operations and enhance efficiency.
Vietnam’s commitment to sustainability and energy security is evident through smart production, renewable energy adoption, and circular economy principles, positioning it as a leader in environmental resilience and energy security.
Overall, the various plans, blueprints and roadmaps represent pivotal steps towards realising Vietnam’s vision of becoming a digital powerhouse. By leveraging technology as a catalyst for socio-economic advancement, the nation is poised to unlock new opportunities, drive inclusive growth, and enhance its global competitiveness in the digital age.
