Many enterprises in Bắc Giang Province have shown strong interest in training programmes to improve knowledge and apply information technology, digital transformation and artificial intelligence (AI) in business operations. — VNS Photo

BẮC GIANG — Bắc Giang Province is embracing the digital transformation with a strong focus on e-commerce, aiming to make the digital economy a key driver of growth and competitiveness.

As part of its development strategy, Bắc Giang has set a target for the digital economy to contribute around 35 per cent of its gross regional domestic product (GRDP) by 2025.

According to Mai Sơn, vice chairman of the People's Committee of Bắc Giang Province, each economic sector is expected to integrate digital tools into at least 15 per cent of its activities.

The province currently boasts over 800 digital enterprises and more than 1,500 information technology and electronics companies, covering hardware, software and related services. In 2024, total revenue from these companies exceeded VNĐ500 trillion (US$19.4 billion), with exports nearing $6.8 billion. Their contribution to the State budget surpassed VNĐ2.5 trillion.

To support this ambitious goal, Bắc Giang is upgrading its provincial e-commerce platform 24h.vn, while connecting it to national and regional e-commerce systems. The aim is to promote locally made goods – especially One Commune One Product (OCOP) certified items – across wider markets.

Over 270 OCOP products in the province are rated three stars or above, and Bắc Giang is working to ensure 100 per cent of these items are sold online.

A notable success is the rapid digital adoption by local businesses. 100 per cent of firms in Bắc Giang are now equipped with internet-connected computers, and 90 per cent regularly conduct online business transactions. Most companies use email, social networks or messaging platforms such as Facebook Messenger, Zalo and Viber to communicate with clients and suppliers.

Standing Vice Chairwoman of the Bắc Giang Provincial People’s Council Lâm Thị Hương Thành and Standing Vice Chairman of the provincial People’s Committee Mai Sơn visit a digital transformation showcase by local businesses. — VNS Photo

In business-to-consumer (B2C) activities, a growing number of companies are creating websites and joining e-commerce platforms. More than 60 per cent of businesses are selling on social media, exceeding the national average. Many also participate in livestream sales on platforms like TikTok.

Bắc Giang City resident Nguyễn Thị Hà said: “I order almost every week on TikTok. The prices are reasonable, and the quality is very good, from clothes to cosmetics and food.”

Hoàng Xuân Mau, director of Cao Lan Agricultural Cooperative, said livestreaming has transformed their sales.

“In the beginning, it was very difficult – few people watched. But after six months of learning and improving, we had our first orders. During our best session, we earned over VNĐ10 million online.”

Meanwhile, head of the Núi Dành Ginseng Cooperative Thân Hải Đăng said their ginseng products have reached customers nationwide thanks to Facebook, Zalo and TikTok. Their account 'Sâm tổ Núi Dành' has gained more than 10,000 followers.

In the business-to-business segment, many companies are implementing advanced software for accounting, customer relationship management, supply chain management and enterprise resource planning. About 60 per cent of businesses use digital signatures, and 43 per cent apply electronic contracts, both higher than national averages.

Young people in Bắc Giang show great interest in IT applications and innovation in the digital era. — VNS Photo

Bắc Giang is also encouraging electronic invoicing and online tax declaration, with 100 per cent of local enterprises already on board. The province promotes training in e-commerce for cooperatives and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and provides support for online payment tools, website development and digital branding.

With strong support from the Ministry of Industry and Trade, Bắc Giang works closely with major e-commerce platforms and banks to help SMEs create digital storefronts, improve logistics and enhance product visibility.

“The e-commerce platform is like a lifeline, helping local agricultural products reach new customers,” said Hoàng Minh Chiến, deputy director of the Vietnam Trade Promotion Agency. “It’s especially important now and will continue to be a key distribution channel in the future.” — VNS