According to Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son, artificial intelligence (AI), big data, and mobile internet will profoundly impact Vietnam in the coming era, amid fierce competition among global technology powers.

A year of notable achievements in science and technology

On December 30, the Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) held a conference to review its accomplishments in 2024 and set tasks for 2025.

In 2024, science and technology (S&T) played a pivotal role in Vietnam’s socio-economic development, national defense, security, and improving the quality of life for its citizens.

The ministry addressed numerous challenges, introducing policies and mechanisms to establish S&T and innovation as a primary national strategy and a driver of modern production forces.

Breakthroughs in S&T applications were made across sectors such as healthcare, agriculture, industry, and national defense. Efforts to promote technology transfer and collaboration intensified, strengthening the national S&T infrastructure.

Vietnam’s S&T ecosystem saw significant private investment, the rise of globally recognized scientists, and the establishment of international-level S&T organizations in both public and private sectors.

The country’s innovation ecosystem flourished, creating a new generation of businesses built on intellectual property and capable of competing in global markets. In 2024, Vietnam ranked 56th in the Global Startup Ecosystem Index and 44th in the Global Innovation Index (GII), with three indicators leading the world, including "Creative Goods Exports" for the first time.

A unified ministry for a new era

Under Resolution No. 18-NQ/TW, the MoST and the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) will merge into the Ministry of Science, Technology, and Communications.

Minister Huynh Thanh Dat emphasized that this integration aims to achieve ambitious goals for Vietnam in the digital and technological age.

The two ministries have collaboratively drafted a decree defining the functions and structure of the new entity, streamlining operations to maximize efficiency.

The merger aligns with Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW, which identifies S&T, innovation, and digital transformation as crucial for national progress.

"Together, we aim to seize the best opportunities for Vietnam to become a prosperous and powerful nation in this era of global transformation," Minister Dat stated.

Key challenges and opportunities ahead

Deputy Prime Minister Bui Thanh Son praised the sector’s 2024 achievements, particularly the advisory role it played in implementing Resolution No. 57.

He highlighted Vietnam’s rising status, as reflected in its GII ranking, and noted international recognition of the country’s advances in S&T, particularly in healthcare, education, and human resources.

Looking ahead, the Deputy Prime Minister identified three transformative factors for Vietnam: AI, big data, and mobile internet.

“These technologies are driving the Fourth Industrial Revolution and reshaping global dynamics. Vietnam must carefully choose its technological path to ensure sustainable growth,” he stated.

He also addressed the global competition among tech powers, warning of fragmentation and its impact on Vietnam's technological decisions.

The Deputy Prime Minister urged the S&T sector to: Translate scientific insights into actionable policies. Enhance financial mechanisms and investment in S&T. Build a robust market for S&T to fuel economic growth and accelerate digital transformation.

By proactively adapting to global trends, Vietnam’s science and technology sector aims to contribute significantly to the nation's socio-economic development and its integration into the digital age.

Trong Dat