When I landed in Vietnam back in October 2000, I was heading the IT sector at the French Embassy’s Economic Department. At the time? Internet was expensive and painfully slow.
Fast forward to today—Vietnam has some of the most affordable and widespread internet access in Asia. Nearly every adult owns a smartphone, and digital tools are part of daily life.
Our latest research says:
60% of urban residents (18–64) have used AI tools
But only 4% use them daily
Just 8% feel confident using AI, mostly older age groups
Among 18–24-year-olds, 15% feel well prepared to use AI
Major players like FPT and Viettel are powering this transformation—building infrastructure, training talent, and rolling out next-gen tech across the country.
But it’s not all smooth sailing: 
New data privacy and cybersecurity rules are tough to navigate—especially for SMEs. Vague guidelines = higher costs and slower progress. Foreigners still can’t access key e-government services, making it harder to fully integrate international talent and investors.
Still, I’m optimistic. With bold public + private investments and the vision of Resolution 57, Vietnam is on track to become a regional digital powerhouse. Not every goal may be hit—but the direction is right.
Are you seeing this shift too? Would love to hear how others view Vietnam’s digital evolution.
Vietnam
Laos
Cambodia
Myanmar