Brian Jeffrey
Vietnam’s digital tech sector is making impressive strides. At the sixth Make in Vietnam forum, VietnamNet interviewed Dang Thi Anh Tuyet, founder of MedCAT, to discuss the initiative’s impact on local startups.
Having actively participated in the sixth Make in Vietnam forum, how do you perceive the growth of digital tech companies since this initiative began?
Since the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) initiated the Make in Vietnam initiative, there has been a noticeable increase in awareness among local businesses about the importance of creating products domestically for both local use and international markets.
Numerous new technologies and products have emerged from Vietnamese companies as a result. This reflects the significant advancements catalyzed by the forum.
Currently, around 32% of revenue in Vietnam’s ICT sector comes from local value creation. The MIC aims to raise this to 50% by 2030. What steps should be taken to reach this goal from your standpoint as an entrepreneur in technology?
We have a defined strategy in place, and the MIC has successfully fostered a sense of national pride, motivating local businesses to innovate and operate boldly.
The market for Vietnamese digital tech firms is broadening, and their competitiveness on the global stage is improving.
To fulfill the goal of increasing domestic value creation, we need to establish additional supportive mechanisms for businesses. With these in place, I believe we can meet this ambition fully.
As an entrepreneur, I recognize some specific challenges facing Vietnam. We have an intimate understanding of our domestic market.
Recently, many skilled Vietnamese professionals overseas have shown interest in returning to contribute to the country’s progress, while young entrepreneurs are eager to develop products that fit under the Make in Vietnam umbrella.
This creates a significant opportunity for crafting innovative, high-quality technology that aligns with the initiative.
The recently issued Resolution 57 by the Politburo is a positive development for the tech industry, promising extensive support for digital companies and innovative startups in the nation.
I hope Vietnam will formulate policies that foster a robust tech ecosystem. While larger tech firms are crucial, the growth of smaller startups is also essential.
To make this happen, focused support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), particularly those engaged in pioneering technologies, is necessary.
Innovative breakthroughs often lack comparisons, so it is vital to have supportive policies that facilitate the swift market release of products and applications. Gathering user feedback early can enhance these technologies.
Implementing such strategies will further encourage startups with well-developed products to bring them to the market effectively.
If appropriate policies are adopted, what are your hopes for the future of Vietnam’s digital tech companies?
I am confident that Vietnam’s digital technology sector will thrive in the years ahead. The Vietnamese people have a strong inclination towards learning and excel in STEM fields.
Our understanding of market dynamics and customer needs is improving. With clear strategic direction and an evolving mindset, Vietnam is poised to successfully achieve its tech objectives soon.
