Vietnamese leaders have urged U.S. chip designer Qualcomm and South Korea’s Samsung Electronics to enhance their investments in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and research and development as the nation aims to become a regional innovation hub.
During a meeting in Hanoi, Communist Party General Secretary and President To Lam appealed to Qualcomm CEO Cristiano Amon to increase investment in AI, robotics, 5G/6G, data centers, and next-generation technologies. Lam emphasized Vietnam’s shift towards a growth model focused on science, technology, and digital transformation.
Amon expressed Qualcomm’s intention to develop its presence in Vietnam into its third-largest AI research and development hub globally. The company operates an R&D center in Hanoi and has collaborated with local firms such as Viettel and VinSmart.
Additionally, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung met with Samsung Electronics CEO Roh Tae-moon, highlighting Vietnam’s desire for Samsung to be a key partner in enhancing technological capabilities and integrating further into global value chains. Hung acknowledged Samsung’s significant contributions to Vietnam’s industrial development, noting that the company is one of the country’s most crucial manufacturing hubs.
Samsung’s mobile phone manufacturing entities in Vietnam reached $500 billion in total exports since production began 17 years ago, with the company investing $24 billion in the country to date. Roh mentioned Samsung’s plans for further investment and training, aiming to involve local firms more in its global supply chain.
