Vietnam’s Information and Communication Infrastructure Master Plan for the Period 2021-2030, with a Vision to 2050, aims to establish a trajectory for the country’s information technology infrastructure development in its pursuit of a high-tech future. The Master Plan, initially unveiled in January 2024, was sanctioned by Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính as Decision 36/QD-TTg on February 23, 2024.
The Master Plan prioritizes the development of high-speed internet, green data centers, and specialized IT parks, while also emphasizing comprehensive cybersecurity measures to position Vietnam as a prominent hub for network security in Asia by 2030. To achieve this, investors looking to tap into opportunities in Vietnam’s digital economy are advised to align their products and service offerings with the Master Plan.
According to the Master Plan, the development of Vietnam’s IT industry will rely on emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data, blockchain, cloud computing, and the internet of things (IoT). The ultimate goal is to integrate digital technology applications across all aspects of economic and social life, moving beyond mere assembly and processing to the production of electronic, telecommunications, and information technology products and services within Vietnam.
To foster economic growth, innovation, and cybersecurity resilience, specific initiatives have been outlined in the Master Plan. These include the establishment of a National Innovation Center, the development of a digital ecosystem, the creation of a national database, and the establishment of a national cybersecurity monitoring center.
By implementing the initiatives outlined in the Master Plan, Vietnam aims to become a regional leader in digital infrastructure and a hub for innovation and technology in Southeast Asia.
Vietnam’s Master Plan for Digital Infrastructure: Overview
Vietnam’s Master Plan for Digital Infrastructure is a comprehensive roadmap that aims to transform the country into a connected digital society. The plan recognizes the importance of digital transformation and the role of digital infrastructure in driving economic growth, promoting innovation, and improving the quality of life for citizens. The plan prioritizes the following:
Establishment of Broadband Communication Infrastructure and High-Speed Internet
Vietnam aims to establish a broadband communication infrastructure with large capacity, high-speed technology, and extensive integration of IoT. The plan targets extending the coverage of 5G mobile broadband networks to 99% of the population and prioritizes the advancement of next-generation mobile networks by 2030. By doing so, the country aims to bridge the digital divide and ensure that all citizens and businesses can access the wealth of opportunities offered by the digital realm.
Investments in International Telecommunications Cable Lines
Vietnam recognizes the importance of global connectivity in today’s interconnected world. As such, the Master Plan includes strategic investments in international telecommunications cable lines. These investments are crucial for enhancing Vietnam’s connectivity with the global digital ecosystem, fostering collaboration, trade, and innovation on a global scale.
Transition to IPv6 Technology by 2025
The transition to IPv6 technology represents a significant milestone in Vietnam’s digital infrastructure roadmap. By prioritizing the transition to IPv6 by 2025, Vietnam aims to future-proof its digital infrastructure, accommodating the increasing number of internet-connected devices and applications. IPv6 offers enhanced scalability, security, and address space compared to its predecessor, IPv4.
Large-Scale Data Centers Adhering to Green Standards
Data centers serve as the backbone of Vietnam’s digital capabilities, with the country’s data center economy forecasted to reach US$1.03 billion in growth by 2028. The Master Plan emphasizes the need to create data centers that adhere to green standards and energy-efficient practices. By 2025, the objective is to set up national data centers that underpin national databases, featuring at least three multi-purpose data centers at the national level and additional ones at the regional level.
Establishment of Dedicated IT Parks
The Master Plan outlines Vietnam’s ambitious goal of establishing 12-14 IT parks by 2025, with this number increasing to 16-20 by 2030. These specialized IT parks are designed to cultivate the growth of high-value IT products and services, positioning themselves as centers for technological innovation and economic growth. By 2025, each dedicated IT park and research and innovation center should benefit from a minimum internet speed of 1 GB per second. Strategically locating these parks in regions with strong IT development, the government is making a deliberate effort to stimulate the creation of timely and significant added value.
In conclusion, Vietnam’s Master Plan for Digital Infrastructure is a comprehensive roadmap that aims to transform the country into a connected digital society. The plan prioritizes the establishment of broadband communication infrastructure and high-speed internet, investments in international telecommunications cable lines, transition to IPv6 technology, large-scale data centers adhering to green standards, and establishment of dedicated IT parks. By implementing these measures, Vietnam aims to bridge the digital divide and position itself as a leader in the digital economy.
Envisioning Cybersecurity in Vietnam’s Digital Future
Vietnam’s Master Plan places a significant emphasis on cybersecurity, aiming to achieve comprehensive security coverage across digital government, digital economy, and digital society by 2025. To achieve this, the country needs to fortify information systems within state agencies, raise public awareness about cyber threats, and equip internet users with essential cyber information security services.
The country’s efforts to bolster network information security aim to create a resilient digital infrastructure that safeguards critical assets and fosters a secure online environment for its citizens. In line with this vision, the Master Plan seeks to establish a robust cyber information security product ecosystem. Through the development of key information security products and services, Vietnam aims to meet domestic cybersecurity needs and emerge as a competitive force in the global cybersecurity market.
Vietnam harbors ambitions of emerging as a leading hub for ensuring network information security in Asia by 2030. To achieve this, the country aims to utilize open-source technologies strategically and embrace innovation to achieve technological autonomy and establish mastery over its network security market.
Such efforts are poised to pave the way for strategic investments and collaborations, positioning Vietnam as a trusted partner in cybersecurity. Investors seeking to capitalize on Vietnam’s burgeoning digital economy are advised to align their products and services with the Master Plan and benefit from government support and sector-specific and regional incentives.
In conclusion, Vietnam’s Master Plan places cybersecurity at the forefront of its digital future. By fortifying information systems, raising public awareness, and equipping internet users with essential cyber information security services, Vietnam aims to create a resilient digital infrastructure that safeguards critical assets and fosters a secure online environment for its citizens. Through the establishment of a robust cyber information security product ecosystem and strategic utilization of open-source technologies, Vietnam aims to emerge as a leading hub for ensuring network information security in Asia by 2030. Investors seeking to capitalize on Vietnam’s burgeoning digital economy are advised to align their products and services with the Master Plan and benefit from government support and sector-specific and regional incentives.