The Provincial Innovation Index (PII) 2023 was announced by the Ministry of Science and Technology (MST) on March 12.

PII supplies a scientific and practical foundation for agencies, organizations, and leaders of localities to build and implement policies to boost socio-economic development based on science, technology, and innovation.

The PII will also provide a useful tool for investors to learn about the investment climate, conditions, and resources for production and business activities in different localities.

A part from Ha Noi, other top performers are Ho Chi Minh City (55.85 points), Hai Phong (52.32 points), Da Nang (50.70 points), Can Tho (49.66 points), Bac Ninh (49.20 points), Ba Ria-Vung Tau (49.18), Binh Duong (48.64 points), Quang Ninh (48.03), and Thai Nguyen.

Of the six socio-economic regions, the Red River Delta ranks top by scoring 45.17 on average, followed by Southeast Region with average score of 44.81. The North Central Coast and the Central Coast, and the Mekong Delta Region scored 36.96 and 36.36 points respectively.

The Central Highlands Region and the North Mountainous Region gained 32.72 and 32.19 points, respectively.

Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Hoang Minh said the findings match the socio-economic development status of localities nationwide. Localities ranking high on the index boast favorable natural and geographical conditions, industry - construction and service sectors accounting for large proportions of their economies, industrial parks, developed infrastructure, and strong scientific, technological, and innovative activities.

Meanwhile, the worst-performing localities are those with modest socio-economic development levels along with natural and geographical disadvantages for the development and application of science, technology, and innovation./.VGP