Institutional frameworks and fragmented data systems are two major barriers hindering the development of smart cities in Vietnam, according to experts at the Vietnam-Asia Smart Cities Conference 2024 in Hanoi.

The event, held on December 2–3, brings together policymakers, experts, and top digital technology firms to explore breakthrough solutions. With the theme “Smart Cities - Digital Economy - Sustainable Development,” the conference highlights three strategic goals and reflects the foundational pillars of Hanoi’s new vision and innovative thinking for development.

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The Vietnam-Asia Smart Cities Conference 2024 in Hanoi provides a platform for stakeholders to discuss innovative solutions. Photo: Organizing Committee

During the session titled "Smart Cities: Flexible Governance Based on Data," Ho Duc Thang, Deputy Director of the National Digital Transformation Agency (Ministry of Information and Communications), emphasized that smart cities are the convergence of transformative technologies, such as IoT, 5G, cloud computing, big data, and AI.

“Smart cities are no longer a new concept in Vietnam, with pilot projects launched across ministries, sectors, and localities over the past five years. Statistics show that 45 localities have implemented smart city initiatives, and 60 have deployed at least one application in this domain,” said Thang.

Thang identified several challenges, including limited data collection and management, inadequate infrastructure, and uneven awareness and capacity among stakeholders. However, the key bottleneck lies in establishing a regulatory framework and mechanisms to foster smart city development.

“Local authorities often hesitate to adopt new technologies. The State needs to support and encourage innovation through controlled pilot programs at the local level,” Thang suggested.

Looking forward, he proposed shifting the State’s role from direct oversight to facilitation by refining regulations, particularly those governing data markets. “Data control is vital for managing key platforms and applications,” he added.

Lieutenant Colonel Nguyen Thanh Vinh, Director of the National Population Data Center (Ministry of Public Security), stressed the need for internal transformation and dismantling legal barriers to digital transformation. He advocated a phased approach to building and enhancing digital systems.

“Each step should contribute to a cohesive overall framework,” Vinh said, highlighting the lack of shared databases among ministries and sectors as a common challenge. This limitation prevents local residents from benefiting fully from available resources.

Agreeing with this perspective, Cu Kim Long, Deputy Director of the IT Center (Ministry of Science and Technology), called for improved data interoperability across cities, provinces, and at the national level. He emphasized the need for experimental mechanisms, suggesting that both local and central authorities must align for successful implementation.

Representatives from Ho Chi Minh City and Da Nang shared their experiences with data-driven governance and smart city development during the afternoon session.

Vo Thi Trung Trinh, Director of Ho Chi Minh City’s Digital Transformation Center, emphasized the importance of leadership commitment and coordinated efforts among governments, businesses, and citizens.

Meanwhile, Tran Ngoc Thach, Deputy Director of Da Nang’s Department of Information and Communications, outlined a roadmap for smart city development focused on leveraging data systems efficiently.

The Vinh