According to Deputy Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism Ho An Phong, Vietnam’s cultural industries are currently at a mid-level globally but possess significant potential for development.
As 2025 marks the launch of the National Target Program for Cultural Development (2025–2035), the cultural sector is expected to contribute 7% to Vietnam's GDP by 2030.
Steady growth over the past five years
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Over the past five years, the number of economic establishments in cultural industries has grown by an average of 7.21% annually. By 2022, approximately 70,321 establishments employed 1.7–2.3 million people, reflecting an annual workforce growth of 7.44%.
In sectors such as architecture, fashion, design, and cinema, value-added contributions have grown significantly, with cinema leading at 7.94% annually.
Deputy Minister Ho An Phong noted that Vietnam's progress aligns with global trends, placing the country at a mid-level of cultural industry development with room for growth.
Cultural industries are not only reshaping the structure of economic sectors but also creating shifts in regional economic dynamics, supported by the emergence of cultural hubs and creative cities.
Exporting culture: A dual benefit
Deputy Minister Phong highlighted the importance of cultural exports as both an economic driver and a way to enhance Vietnam’s global standing.
In recent years, sectors such as cinema, performing arts, handicrafts, and gaming have achieved notable progress. Events like Anh Trai Vuot Ngan Chong Gai (Call Me By Fire), Anh Trai Say Hi (Brothers Say Hi), and the first Nha Trang International Jazz Festival 2024 have not only boosted tourism and investment but also generated substantial revenue.
Cultural exports serve as a bridge for global solidarity and peace, showcasing Vietnam’s transformation from a war-torn, impoverished nation into a developing country that has achieved significant milestones, including poverty reduction and gender equality.
“This is not just about material value,” emphasized the Deputy Minister, “but about solidifying Vietnam’s position on the global stage.”
Goals for 2025 and beyond
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2025 marks the first year of implementing the National Target Program for Cultural Development. Deputy Minister Ho outlined five core solutions to accelerate progress:
Policy and legal framework improvement: Developing laws and decrees to address legal gaps in areas such as performing arts and literature.
Maximizing resources: State funding should act as a catalyst while encouraging public and private partnerships and leveraging domestic and foreign investments.
Decentralization and specialization: Empowering local authorities to plan and implement projects tailored to their unique cultural assets, ensuring focused and efficient investments.
Capacity building: Training and upskilling officials responsible for managing and executing cultural initiatives, alongside strengthening monitoring and evaluation mechanisms.
Leveraging technology: Integrating modern technologies and innovation to create a robust digital ecosystem for cultural industries.
The Deputy Minister stressed the importance of aligning these initiatives with Resolution 57, which aims to position Vietnam’s digital government, digital economy, and digital society among the world's top performers by 2030.
Tinh Le