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Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang recently stressed the imperative need for the Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) to craft specific institutional and legal frameworks, delineating clear pathways for the advancement of science and technology within Vietnam. Speaking at an event dedicated to reviewing the ministry’s 2023 performance and outlining tasks for 2024, he underscored the importance of robust policies aimed at fostering innovation.
Addressing the need for precise policies, Quang highlighted the necessity for frameworks concerning asset valuation resulting from scientific research, provisions for scientists, and the establishment of self-reliant financial mechanisms. He emphasized the pivotal role of allocating adequate capital to scientific research to encourage advancements in the field.
Moreover, he highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts among relevant ministries and agencies, advocating for strengthened connections to leverage international experiences. Quang stressed solidarity as a crucial factor in overcoming challenges and obstacles encountered in this domain.
Acknowledging the ministry’s commendable performance in 2023, Quang attributed Vietnam’s resilience and achievements, even amidst regional and global adversities, to the substantial contributions from the science and technology industry, scientists, and sectoral workers.
The Global Innovation Index (GII) presented at the conference showcased Vietnam’s continuous improvement over the past 13 years in transforming resources into innovative outcomes. Notably, Vietnam has climbed to the 46th position among 132 economies featured in the Global Innovation Index 2023, demonstrating substantial progress, particularly within the lower middle-income group.
The MOST’s initiatives included the development and nationwide deployment of the Provincial Innovation Index (PII) in 2023. This tool measures the innovation capacities and outcomes of various localities, significantly enhancing the national innovation index.
In the realm of high technology, concerted efforts among ministries and agencies facilitated advancements in accessing semiconductor chip manufacturing technology. High-tech products’ export value rose to nearly 50% of the total exported goods. The ministry also effectively implemented tasks centred around key Fourth Industrial Revolution technologies, leveraging Vietnam’s strengths in artificial intelligence, big data analysis, the Internet of Things, 3D printing, and virtual reality.
Vietnam’s burgeoning creative startup ecosystem marked substantial growth in scale and operational models. Regarded as one of Asia’s most dynamic ecosystems, it achieved a global ranking of 58th. Additionally, Hanoi secured a spot among the top 200 global creative startup cities for the first time.
The country’s investment in startups and innovation within the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) showcased promising development, with 56 projects securing a total investment of nearly US$ 500 million in the initial six months of 2023.
Similarly, in an event organised to review the achievements of 2023 and chart the path for the forthcoming year, Minister Hung underscored the transformative potential of Information and Communication Technology (ICT).
Minister Nguyen Manh Hung articulated a comprehensive vision, emphasising the pivotal role of digital infrastructure and applications in steering the country towards economic prosperity, elevated labour productivity, and societal progression.
At this same session, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang echoed Minister Hung’s sentiments, stressing the crucial role played by the information technology sector in propelling Vietnam’s overall development.
Quang underlined the significance of digital transformation as the cornerstone of administrative reform, reiterating the urgency of aligning policies with global standards. He urged the swift development of new decrees and regulations to facilitate this transformative process efficiently.
Furthermore, Quang advocated for tailored approaches that address the unique needs of various sectors. He specifically highlighted the importance of rectifying irregularities in media and restructuring media agencies. Additionally, he reaffirmed the enduring cultural value of books in Vietnamese society, making a strong case for increased attention and support for book publishing, a fundamental aspect of the country’s social fabric.
