Bi-Weekly News Updates: Aug. 29 to Sep. 14, 2025

VinFast Teams Up with Tensor to Launch World’s First Level-4 Autonomous EV for Consumers; PetroVietnam Proposes $15 Billion Eco-Energy Industrial Hub in Can Tho; Vietnam Emphasizes National AI Strategy as CMC Launches C-OpenAI Platform; Vietnam, Italy Partner to Launch Satellite and Aerospace Research Centre at PTIT; Thailand’s Digital Economy Set to Hit 3 Trillion Baht by 2027, Fueled by AI Growth; Thailand, ASEAN Urged to Boost Resilience Amid Global Trade Shifts at ITD Forum; Thailand Consumers Council Pushes for Stronger EV Protections Amid Rising Complaints; Thailand Rises as Global PCB Hub Amid AI-Driven Investment Surge; Thailand’s First Smart Industrial Estate Takes Shape with $560M ARAYA Project; Thailand Presses Ahead with US Tariff Negotiations as New Cabinet Set to Finalise Details

VinFast Teams Up with Tensor to Launch World’s First Level-4 Autonomous EV for Consumers

VinFast 攜手 Tensor 推出全球首款 Level-4 自駕電動車,搶攻消費級市場

Vietnamese automaker VinFast has announced a landmark partnership with Silicon Valley start-up Tensor to produce the Tensor Robocar, the world’s first Level-4 self-driving electric vehicle designed for individual customers. Unlike most autonomous vehicles developed for ride-hailing services, this model is intended for personal use and will be manufactured at VinFast’s Hai Phong factory. Equipped with more than 100 advanced sensors—including 37 cameras, five LiDARs, and 11 radars—the Tensor Robocar can navigate complex traffic conditions, while its AI platform, Tensor Foundation Model, enables it to interpret, reason, and adapt in real time. The vehicle also features foldable pedals and a steering wheel, self-cleaning sensors, and automatic software updates, pushing autonomous driving closer to mainstream commercialization.

The partnership marks the first time a Vietnamese automaker has taken on the challenge of producing a high-level autonomous car for the global market, boosting VinFast’s standing in the automotive industry. While Forbes reports that the Robocar may initially operate mainly on expressways and major thoroughfares, the vehicle’s design emphasizes long-term adaptability, with power and communication systems built for upgrades and reliability in tough conditions. For Tensor—formerly known as AutoX and already experienced in operating robotaxi fleets in China—the collaboration reflects a strategic move toward selling autonomous EVs directly to consumers. Together, VinFast and Tensor aim to redefine personal mobility and position Vietnam as a serious contender in the global smart vehicle race.
https://news.tuoitre.vn/vietnams-vinfast-partners-with-tensor-to-produce-fully-autonomous-evs-103250903161700737.htm

小編點評:越南電動車巨頭 VinFast 與矽谷新創公司 Tensor 宣布達成戰略合作,推出全球首款專為個人用戶設計的「Level-4 級自動駕駛電動車」——Tensor Robocar。該車搭載超過 100 個感測器與先進的人工智慧(AI)系統,具備強大的即時導航與環境適應能力。這項突破性的合作不僅展現了越南在全球智慧車輛產業中異軍突起的實力,也象徵著自動駕駛技術正朝向以消費者為中心的移動模式轉型。

PetroVietnam Proposes $15 Billion Eco-Energy Industrial Hub in Can Tho

越南油氣集團 (PVN) 擬斥資 150 億美元,於芹苴市打造「生態能源工業樞紐」

The Vietnam National Industry – Energy Group (PetroVietnam) has unveiled an ambitious plan to develop an ecological energy industrial hub in Can Tho City, with a total projected investment of up to US$15 billion. Presented during a working session chaired by Can Tho People’s Committee Chairman Tran Van Lau, the project will feature clusters for logistics, clean energy, green industry, and low-carbon manufacturing. PetroVietnam estimates that the hub could generate gross revenues of $2.3 billion by 2030 and $5.6 billion by 2050. The first phase is expected to attract $4 billion by 2035, with full completion projected by 2050.

Two key sites have been proposed for the development: the O Mon area, already earmarked for energy and high-tech industries, and the Nam Hau River area, which boasts proximity to renewable energy resources, major transport links, and port facilities. PetroVietnam has requested revisions to urban planning, land allocation, and infrastructure investments to facilitate progress, along with vocational training programs to prepare the local workforce. Chairman Lau expressed strong support, urging completion of the feasibility study by mid-September and affirming the city’s commitment to the project, which is expected to create tens of thousands of jobs and drive economic transformation across the Mekong Delta region.

https://news.tuoitre.vn/petrovietnam-eyes-15bn-energy-project-in-can-tho-103250828141224869.htm

小編點評:越南國家石油集團(PetroVietnam)正式提議,擬於芹苴市(Can Tho City)斥資 150 億美元(約新台幣 4,890 億元)打造一座「生態能源工業樞紐」。該園區將規劃清潔能源、綠色工業及低碳製造三大聚落,預計到 2050 年年營收可達 56 億美元(約新台幣 1,826 億元)。在當地政府的全力支持下,此計畫選址於烏門(O Mon)及南後江(Nam Hau River)等戰略位置,旨在帶動湄公河三角洲的經濟轉型,並創造數萬個就業機會。

Vietnam Emphasizes National AI Strategy as CMC Launches C-OpenAI Platform

越南強化國家 AI 戰略:CMC 集團發布 C-OpenAI 平台,加速產業數位轉型

At the launch of CMC’s C-OpenAI platform, Minister of Science and Technology Nguyen Manh Hung stressed the importance of combining global and national-level efforts in artificial intelligence. While global applications like ChatGPT dominate worldwide use, he emphasized that national AI solutions are equally crucial, particularly for developing countries like Vietnam to design sustainable innovations tailored to local needs. Highlighting CMC’s advantages, the minister pointed to its access to Vietnamese data, open-source expertise, and the adaptability and creativity of the Vietnamese people, noting that CMC’s strategic AI focus aligns with the rapid pace of technological transformation.

CMC announced that its C-OpenAI platform is built on more than 25 core in-house technologies, including computer vision, natural language processing, large language models, speech processing, and data lakehouse architecture. The company stated these technologies have already been commercialized and validated through international benchmarks, underscoring its global R&D capability. CEO Dang Van Tu said the platform demonstrates CMC’s commitment to developing scalable AI solutions for Vietnam and beyond. The initiative aligns with Vietnam’s national strategy to become one of the top three ASEAN countries in AI research and development by 2030, with major tech firms like CMC designated as pioneers in building the country’s AI infrastructure.

https://news.tuoitre.vn/vietnamese-tech-group-launches-openai-arm-103250822114132847.htm

小編點評:越南正全力推進其國家 AI 戰略,由科技大廠 CMC 集團正式推出C-OpenA平台。該平台整合了超過 25 項自主研發技術,並運用在地數據打造具備可擴展性且符合在地需求的創新方案。在政府政策的強烈支持下,此舉確立了 CMC 集團在越南 AI 發展中的核心地位,助力越南達成「2030 年躋身東協 AI 研究與基礎設施前三大強國」的戰略目標。

Vietnam, Italy Partner to Launch Satellite and Aerospace Research Centre at PTIT

越義強強聯手!越南郵電通信學院(PTIT)將成立「衛星與航太研究中心」

A new Vietnam–Italy collaboration was formalised at the Vietnam–Italy Business Forum 2025 in Hanoi, where the Posts and Telecommunications Institute of Technology (PTIT) and Italy’s Temix Group signed a memorandum of understanding under the witness of senior officials from both countries. Temix, a global leader in satellite communications, defence, and aerospace, will lead the establishment of a research and design centre hosted at PTIT. The facility will bring together Temix experts and Vietnamese researchers to advance innovation in satellite technology and telecommunications, in line with Vietnam’s national strategy to strengthen science, technology, and digital transformation.

PTIT President Dang Hoai Bac highlighted the centre’s role in consolidating technology transfer and creating new professional opportunities, while Temix President Armando Caravella described it as a strategic investment that enhances synergies between Italian expertise and Vietnamese academic excellence. Building on years of cooperation in education and research, including scholarships for Vietnamese students in Italy, the new centre will focus on satellite design, aerospace systems, and advanced telecommunications. It will also provide training opportunities for young engineers, boost Vietnam’s position in the global space industry, and serve institutional and industrial clients across Asia and the Middle East.

https://vir.com.vn/new-telecoms-and-space-design-hub-launched-in-vietnam-135827.html

小編點評:作為越南國家數位轉型戰略的一環,越南與義大利宣布合作,於郵電通信技術學院(PTIT)成立「衛星與航太研究中心」。該中心由義大利 Temix 集團領銜,旨在推動衛星技術與電信領域的創新。此計畫將聚焦於技術轉型、工程人才培訓以及區域產業支援,進一步強化越南在全球航太產業鏈中的地位。

Thailand’s Digital Economy Set to Hit 3 Trillion Baht by 2027, Fueled by AI Growth

AI 浪潮助推!泰國數位經濟規模預計 2027 年突破 3 兆泰銖

Thailand’s digital economy is projected to reach 3 trillion baht by 2027, with artificial intelligence driving demand across all major sectors, according to the latest industry survey released by the Digital Economy Promotion Agency (depa) and the IMC Institute. The report revealed that the country’s digital economy grew 23.35% in 2023, reaching 2.496 trillion baht, with hardware and smart devices leading expansion at 26.62%. Looking ahead, digital services are expected to grow fastest at 10-14% annually, followed by hardware and smart devices at 6-7%, software at 4-6%, and digital content at 1-5%. Depa officials said the findings would help guide business planning and investment decisions in the coming years.

The 2024 survey also highlighted sector-specific performance, with hardware and smart device exports surging 23% to 1.22 trillion baht, while imports climbed 34.40% to 624.1 billion baht. Digital services grew nearly 20% to 367.7 billion baht, led by e-retail and e-logistics, while the software sector expanded 8.46% to 233.4 billion baht. Digital content saw the slowest growth at 14.41%, reaching 50.6 billion baht. Workforce trends were uneven, with software sector employment rising 23.77% to 175,254 people and digital services staff increasing 6.23% to 86,177. In contrast, employment in hardware and smart devices fell 5.05% to 305,875 due to automation and production shifts, underscoring the sector’s rapid transformation.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40055363

小編點評:在 AI 浪潮與數位服務、硬體及智慧裝置強勁成長的帶動下,泰國數位經濟規模預計將在 2027 年突破 3 兆泰銖(約新台幣 2.76 兆元)。回顧 2023 年,該領域已實現 23.35% 的高速擴張,其中軟體與服務業的出口與就業市場表現尤為亮眼;然而,隨著自動化技術普及,硬體製造業的就業人數卻出現下滑。這反映出泰國科技產業景氣在快速擴張的同時,正經歷深刻的勞動力結構轉型。

Thailand, ASEAN Urged to Boost Resilience Amid Global Trade Shifts at ITD Forum

應對全球貿易變局:ITD 國際貿易發展論壇呼籲泰國與東協強化經濟韌性

The International Institute for Trade and Development (ITD), in collaboration with Thailand’s Ministry of Commerce and UNCTAD, hosted the Southeast Asia Trade and Development Forum 2025 in Bangkok under the theme “The Changing Realities of International Trade.” The event gathered more than 300 experts, policymakers, academics, and business leaders to examine structural changes in the global economy and outline strategies for sustainable regional growth. ITD Director Suphakit Charoenkul emphasized that the forum’s outcomes would be translated into concrete strategies to help Thailand and ASEAN strengthen resilience against global trade risks and ensure long-term economic sustainability.

A highlight was a keynote lecture by Columbia University economist Jeffrey D. Sachs, who underscored Asia’s rising global influence, with the region’s share of global GDP climbing from 8.5% in 1980 to 35.3% in 2025, compared to the declining share of advanced economies. Sachs argued that ASEAN, alongside China and India, is well positioned to drive the next generation of economic growth through education upgrades, green and digital transformation, and deeper regional integration. He pointed to initiatives like the ASEAN Power Grid and high-speed rail projects as essential for shared prosperity and predicted that the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) could soon become the world’s most dynamic trade bloc. Suphakit concluded that the forum reflects ASEAN’s determination not just to adapt to global challenges but to emerge as a hub of sustainable and inclusive growth.

https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/business/economy/40055360

小編點評:在曼谷舉行的「2025 年東南亞貿易與發展論壇」上,與會專家與領袖強調,面對全球貿易格局大洗牌,泰國與東協(ASEAN)必須透過永續發展戰略與區域整合來強化「經濟韌性」。著名經濟學家傑佛瑞·薩克斯(Jeffrey D. Sachs)指出,亞洲的經濟影響力正與日俱增,他敦促東協應透過教育投資、綠色與數位轉型,以及「東協電網(ASEAN Power Grid)」與「區域全面經濟夥伴協定(RCEP)」等基礎設施與經貿框架,引領未來的全球成長。

Thailand Consumers Council Pushes for Stronger EV Protections Amid Rising Complaints

電動車申訴案激增!泰國消費者委員會呼籲強化法規,保障車主權益

The Thailand Consumers Council (TCC) has raised concerns over a surge in complaints from electric vehicle (EV) users, citing widespread issues with after-sales service, spare parts shortages, and registration delays. At a recent meeting with government agencies and industry bodies, TCC reported more than 300 grievances, including faulty Conversion & Distribution Units (CDUs), lengthy waits for part replacements, dealers failing to submit claims, and insurance companies rejecting coverage under promotional schemes. The Council warned that these persistent problems are eroding public trust in Thailand’s fast-growing EV market.

To restore consumer confidence, the TCC has proposed a set of policy measures, including mandatory service centres in major areas within one year of market entry, guaranteed spare parts availability for at least five years, and stricter quality assurance standards before granting subsidies. Additional recommendations include establishing a dedicated EV complaint centre in cooperation with the Office of the Consumer Protection Board (OCPB) and the Department of Land Transport, as well as requiring transparent disclosure of brand history, service capabilities, and long-term maintenance costs. The proposals will be submitted to the National Electric Vehicle Committee and the Cabinet for consideration as part of a broader strategy to strengthen protections for EV buyers and ensure sustainable industry growth.

https://www.nationthailand.com/business/automobile/40055024

小編點評:泰國消費者議會(TCC)針對電動車(EV)用戶發出警訊,目前已接獲超過 300 件投訴案,主要集中在售後服務不佳、零組件短缺以及保險理賠糾紛,這些問題正威脅大眾對電動車市場的信心。為解決此困境,議會提出多項政策建議,包括:強制要求設立維修中心、提供五年的零件供應保固、提高補助門檻,以及成立電動車專屬投訴中心,以確保消費者的長期權益與產業的永續發展。

Thailand Rises as Global PCB Hub Amid AI-Driven Investment Surge

AI 投資潮助攻!泰國在全球 PCB供應鏈地位顯著攀升

Thailand is fast emerging as a key production hub for printed circuit boards (PCBs), a critical component in electronics and AI hardware, as major manufacturers shift operations from China to ASEAN. Nikkei Asia reports that Ayutthaya province has become a hotspot for investment, with Chinese giant Victory Giant Technology (VGT)—a major supplier for Nvidia—rapidly expanding its second factory after acquiring it from Taiwan’s APCB Group. Taiwan’s Gold Circuit Electronics (GCE), which supplies PCBs for Nvidia’s networking equipment, has also launched full-scale production at its first Thai plant, while industry leaders like Zhen Ding Tech and Unimicron are securing space in the country.

Driven by soaring global demand for AI chips and servers, PCB makers are increasingly betting on Thailand as a long-term base. VGT, riding the AI wave, has seen its market value jump to $32.6 billion, overtaking Zhen Ding Tech, which stands at $5.97 billion. According to the Industry, Science and Technology International Strategy Center, Thailand’s PCB output is expected to climb from $3.5 billion in 2024 to $5.62 billion by 2030, representing a 7.6% annual growth rate—well above the global average. The surge underscores Thailand’s growing role in the global tech supply chain as it positions itself at the heart of the AI era.

https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40054942

小編點評:在 AI 需求噴發與大廠強勁投資的帶動下,泰國正迅速崛起為全球印刷電路板(PCB)的生產重鎮。隨著勝宏科技(Victory Giant Technology)與金像電子(Gold Circuit Electronics)等巨頭進駐,泰國的 PCB 產值預計將從 2024 年的 35 億美元,於 2030 年大幅增至 56.2 億美元(約新台幣 1,826 億元)。在全球供應鏈從中國轉移至東協(ASEAN)的浪潮中,泰國正穩固其在全球科技產業鏈中的戰略地位。

Thailand’s First Smart Industrial Estate Takes Shape with $560M ARAYA Project

泰國首座智慧工業區成形:ARAYA 計畫斥資 5.6 億美元正式啟動

Thailand’s industrial sector is set for a major transformation as ARAYA – The Eastern Gateway advances toward becoming the country’s first fully integrated smart industrial estate. The $560 million (20 billion baht) project spans 4,600 rai (736 hectares) in Samut Prakan province and has already secured key tenants, including Infineon Technologies Manufacturing (Thailand) and MR. D.I.Y. (Thailand). Developed by a consortium comprising Frasers Property (Thailand), Rojana Industrial Park, and Asia Industrial Estate Company, the site offers strategic access to Bangkok, Suvarnabhumi Airport, and the Eastern Economic Corridor. ARAYA was officially designated a General Industrial Estate by the Industrial Estate Authority in July 2025, marking a significant milestone in its development.

The project introduces an “Industrial-Tech Ecosystem” concept, integrating six zones—an Industrial Tech Campus, Logistics Park, Industrial Estate, Lifestyle & Amenities, Community Services Centre, and residential areas—to attract both local and global investors. Targeting advanced sectors such as semiconductors, EV batteries, electronics, and data centres, ARAYA has also secured infrastructure partnerships with PTT Group, AIS, and the Metropolitan Electricity Authority. Renewable energy will play a key role, with solar installations planned to feed into the main grid. Executives expect to achieve sales of 400 rai by year-end, confident that the estate’s smart infrastructure and ecosystem approach will help Thailand compete with regional rivals in drawing foreign investment.

https://www.nationthailand.com/business/property/40054865

小編點評:泰國斥資 5.6 億美元(約新台幣 182 億元)打造的「ARAYA」計畫,正將北欖府(Samut Prakan)轉型為全泰首座「智慧工業園區」。該區整合了六大專業機能分區,已吸引包含全球半導體領導廠商英飛凌(Infineon Technologies)及零售巨擘 MR. D.I.Y. 等重要租戶進駐。憑藉優越的地理位置與強大的基礎設施夥伴關係,ARAYA 鎖定半導體與電動車(EV)電池等高階產業,助力泰國成為全球投資的關鍵競爭目的地。

Thailand Presses Ahead with US Tariff Negotiations as New Cabinet Set to Finalise Details

緊盯關稅變數:泰國新內閣啟動對美貿易談判,力拼減緩關稅衝擊

Thailand’s trade negotiation team is moving forward with talks on US tariffs, with the Ministry of Commerce leading efforts despite the government’s caretaker status. The discussions, which centre on Local Content requirements and import quotas, are expected to be submitted to the new Cabinet for approval before going to Parliament. While both sides have agreed on a 19% US import tariff, details remain under negotiation. The US has proposed a 50% Regional Value Content (RVC) requirement, while Thailand is pushing for 40% to align with other trade deals and better support local businesses. Thailand also plans to offer tariff exemptions on over 10,000 US export products, though conditions such as prioritising local corn in animal feed imports are still being debated.

A government source confirmed that technical discussions with the US Trade Representative are ongoing, but Cabinet and parliamentary approval must await a fully mandated government. Meanwhile, Thai exporters have faced the 19% tariff since August 1, 2025, with further clarity pending a US Supreme Court ruling on presidential tariff authority. Deputy Prime Minister and Finance Minister Pichai Chunhavajira stressed that Thailand’s competitiveness would remain intact regardless of the ruling, noting that tariff outcomes would be applied uniformly across countries. He added that Thailand’s trade surplus with the US was not expected to cause significant disruption, provided the situation is carefully managed.

https://www.nationthailand.com/business/trade/40054846

小編點評:泰國政府正加緊推動對美關稅談判,重點聚焦於「本土自製率(Local Content)」與「進口配額」兩大核心。一旦具備完整職權的新內閣就位,將立即尋求核准;泰方正力爭將「區域產值含量(RVC)」門檻定為 40%,以保障本土企業權益。儘管自 2025 年 8 月起,泰國出口商已面臨 19% 的高額關稅,但官方對泰國產品的競爭力仍具信心,並預期透過關稅豁免與貿易順差管理,能有效減緩貿易波動帶來的衝擊。