Vietnam is set to invest approximately VNĐ12.8 trillion (US$501.2 million) in constructing a small-scale semiconductor chip manufacturing plant. This facility will focus on research, design, production, packaging, and testing.
The announcement was made by Nguyen Khec Lịch, Director of the Department of Information and Communications Technology under the Ministry of Information and Communications. He revealed that the Prime Minister had signed a strategy for the development of Vietnam’s semiconductor industry through 2030, with a long-term vision extending to 2050. This marks the first time the country has developed such a comprehensive long-term strategy.
Lịch emphasized the need for Vietnam to master research and technology development in the semiconductor and electronics sectors, stressing that without this, the country risks becoming a mere processing hub. He also highlighted the importance of leveraging geopolitical advantages, following investment trends, and focusing on critical infrastructure such as electricity and water, alongside offering supportive policies and mechanisms.
In the short term, Vietnam requires a small yet advanced semiconductor manufacturing plant to meet domestic needs, participate in the global supply chain, and ensure national security in the event of disruptions to supply chains.
Nguyen Trung Kien, Deputy Head of the Semiconductor Technology Department under the Viettel Group, said: “The semiconductor industry is a difficult industry, requiring in-depth knowledge in research, design, and production of electronic systems, information technology, and high-tech industry.”
Major General Nguyen Dinh Chien, Deputy General Director of Viettel Group, added: “Viettel identifies it as a long journey, requiring a reasonable and solid approach in both basic research and business.
“To develop the semiconductor industry, it is necessary to design and manufacture chips that meet the needs of businesses, domestic electronic systems, and national security needs.
“This is the foundation for developing advanced, new-generation chip technologies, and expanding supply abroad.”
Le Quang Dạm, CEO of Marvell Technology Vietnam, said it was a “once in a century” opportunity for Vietnamese semiconductors to develop in the context of continued complex geopolitical conflicts.
“This opportunity does not come by itself, we have to create it,” he said.