Vietnam : data and AI as pillars of enterprise growth

Data and artificial intelligence (AI) are emerging as strategic assets that significantly enhance business competitiveness, profitability and long-term resilience, according to experts at an innovation forum.

The forum, organised by local business and startup associations, drew thousands of entrepreneurs, executives and international participants interested in the latest trends in digital transformation, AI and data-driven strategies.

Speakers emphasised that data is no longer just an operational by-product but a strategic resource that shapes the competitive potential of both enterprises and nations. When effectively harnessed, data can be transformed from fragmented information into actionable knowledge, creating tangible value and strengthening innovation capabilities.

“If data are the raw material, AI functions as the refining tool and insights derived from customers form the bridge that converts data into profit,” one official explained.

This integrated approach allows businesses to identify hidden market needs, personalise products and services, optimise operational costs and establish long-term trust with customers.

The forum highlighted the city’s commitment to advancing its digital economy, in line with national directives targeting breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation and digital transformation. Authorities aim for the digital economy to contribute around 40% of the city’s gross regional domestic product (GRDP) by 2030.

Realising this vision requires businesses to adopt long-term strategies, build robust AI ecosystems across value chains, invest in human capital and prioritise responsible practices that protect customer data and privacy.

Experts stressed that the greatest challenge lies not in collecting data, but in transforming it into meaningful business decisions. Data gains value when it informs strategies, enables new services, enhances customer experiences and strengthens competitive advantage.

Achieving this requires enterprises to cultivate technology readiness, develop skilled human resources and foster a culture that embraces data-driven decision-making. As OpenGov Asia reported, Vietnam is enacting new laws and incentives to attract top science, technology and innovation talent, granting greater rights, career support and favourable conditions for researchers at home and abroad.

Alongside a National Talent Attraction Strategy and investments in infrastructure, Vietnam aims to foster innovation, reduce barriers and strengthen its position as a regional leader in emerging technologies.

The forum also highlighted the growing role of AI at the edge, where compact, specialised AI models operate directly on devices rather than relying solely on cloud-based systems. Edge AI enhances efficiency, strengthens privacy protections and delivers rapid responsiveness, making it a critical tool for enterprises operating in dynamic markets.

Panellists noted that for AI to be truly effective, businesses must maintain high-quality data, continuously refine models and comply with legal and industry standards.

Participants reflected on the historical evolution of technology adoption in Vietnam, noting that early digital initiatives and e-commerce developments demonstrated how strategic use of data and technology can transform small enterprises into competitive market players. Vision, technological innovation and the ability to turn data insights into actionable strategies are critical for long-term business sustainability and growth.

The forum concluded that enterprises embracing data and AI are better positioned to navigate market uncertainties, capture emerging opportunities and strengthen their competitive edge.

These technologies are not merely tools for operational efficiency; they have become central pillars for sustainable growth, driving innovation, customer-centricity and resilience in an increasingly digital global economy.

As businesses continue to integrate data and AI into their operations, experts emphasised that success will depend on a balanced approach that combines technological innovation with human capital development, ethical practices and strategic vision. The message was clear: enterprises that invest wisely in data and AI today are building the foundations for long-term competitiveness and sustainable growth in the future.

By Vivek Dharmaraj – Opengovasia.com – August 23, 2025