Delegates at the “Driving Sustainable Growth: Optimizing Economic Ecosystems, Technology, and Energy Dialogue” on Thursday in HCM City. — VNS Photo Bồ Xuân Hiệp

Bồ Xuân Hiệp

HCM CITY — Việt Nam must upskill its workforce to meet rising global demand in Artificial Intelligence (AI), semiconductors, aerospace, and high-tech design, speakers said at a recent meeting in HCM City.

Speaking at the Policy Dialogue seminar on Wednesday, Colin Blackwell, Head of Vietnam Business Forum Human Resources Working Group, said: “Recognised as a key player in global high-tech manufacturing, Việt Nam is well-positioned to capitalise on burgeoning demand.”

“Việt Nam, especially among its youth, has one of the highest levels of confidence in embracing new technologies, especially concerning AI.”

The opportunities available to Việt Nam in sectors such as AI, semiconductors, robotics, and aerospace are substantial, according to Blackwell.

As the global integration of AI accelerates, there is a corresponding increase in demand for the hardware that supports it, including semiconductors, processors, and robotic components.

By adopting appropriate strategies, investments, and collaborative efforts, Việt Nam can effectively position itself as a global leader in these high-tech industries.

Việt Nam’s strengths in manufacturing, particularly within the electronics sector, afford it a significant advantage as the global landscape shifts toward AI-driven technologies.

A promising area for growth is in humanoid robotics. Prototypes of humanoid robots are currently under development worldwide, with rapid advancements in technology anticipated.

In addition, aerospace is experiencing strong growth as AI increasingly plays a major role in various aspects, from design processes to automated manufacturing.

The country should reevaluate its workforce development strategy to become a major player in this sector, he said.

“Việt Nam’s youth, particularly those from Generation Z, are well-suited for this challenge as digital natives who are comfortable with technology.”

So encouraging them to explore AI and continuously upgrade their skills was vital, he noted.

Establishing partnerships with global technology firms would also enhance practical AI training for the workforce, enabling the nation to maintain competitiveness in AI-driven markets.

In addition, supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) is also crucial, as AI integration can significantly enhance their productivity, according to Blackwell.

Green transition

Speaking at the event, John Rockhold, Head of the Vietnam Business Forum Power and Energy Working Group, emphasised the need for Việt Nam to ensure energy security to support living standards and high-tech industry growth.

He noted Việt Nam’s progress in addressing policy challenges for a green transition while providing clear direction for high-tech sector development.

Integrating clean energy with strategies to attract foreign investment could enhance both the green transition and high-tech industries, he said.

He urged Việt Nam to prioritise investments in high-tech, sustainable practices, and high-value projects for global integration.

Key sectors should include information and communication technology, precision mechanical processing, and advancements in pharmaceuticals, all vital for sustainable economic growth and innovation, Rockhold said.

Võ Văn Hoan, vice chairman of HCM City People’s Committee, said the city would continue developing guidelines to incentivise sustainable growth, focusing on high value-added industries in technology and environmentally sustainable sectors.

“The city is committed to assisting foreign direct investment (FDI) enterprises in navigating policy challenges and enhancing operational efficiency,” he noted.

The Driving Sustainable Growth: Optimizing Economic Ecosystems, Technology, and Energy Dialogue was attended by over 200 foreign direct investment companies and leaders from Việt Nam's Southeast region.

Organised by the HCM City People’s Committee and the Vietnam Business Forum, the event aimed to propose strategies for sustainable growth in the region. — VNS