Ca Mau Accelerates Digital Transformation to Drive Sustainable Growth
Ca Mau province is emerging as a model for digital transformation and innovation in Vietnam’s southern region, leveraging technology to modernise governance, enhance economic efficiency, and promote sustainability. At the fifth meeting of the provincial Steering Committee for Science, Technology, Innovation, and Digital Transformation, officials highlighted significant progress, with 38 of 65 key 2025 tasks already completed and most others on schedule. The province has achieved notable milestones in digital governance, with online administrative submissions reaching 76 per cent, digital payments 86 per cent, and citizen satisfaction exceeding 95 per cent, ranking Ca Mau among Vietnam’s top performers in public service digitalisation.
In partnership with leading corporations such as Viettel, VNPT, and FPT, Ca Mau is advancing smart governance and high-tech economic initiatives, including AI-driven Party Congress sessions and a $10 million genome sequencing project for its famous Ca Mau crabs in collaboration with the University of Queensland and Vingroup Innovation Foundation. The province has also scaled up circular shrimp farming and strengthened its two-tier government model to streamline administration. With an ambitious target of 8.5 per cent economic growth in 2025, Ca Mau is positioning science, technology, and digital innovation as the core engines of sustainable development.
https://vir.com.vn/digital-transition-powers-ca-mau-to-sustainability-137533.html
Editor’s Note: Ca Mau province is rapidly advancing digital transformation, completing over half of its 2025 goals and achieving top rankings in online governance, digital payments, and citizen satisfaction. Partnering with major tech firms and research institutions, it is driving smart governance, high-tech agriculture, and innovation-led growth to meet its ambitious 8.5% economic target for 2025.
VinFast Becomes First Vietnamese Carmaker to Surpass 100,000 Sales in 2025
Vietnamese electric vehicle manufacturer VinFast has made history by becoming the first domestic brand to sell over 100,000 cars within the first nine months of 2025. From January to September, the company delivered 103,884 vehicles, maintaining its streak as Vietnam’s best-selling car brand for 11 consecutive months. The compact VF 3, dubbed the “national electric car,” led sales with 31,386 units, followed by the VF 5 with 30,956 units, the VF 6 with 14,425 units, the VF 7 with 5,877 units, and the Limo Green MPV with 2,120 units. VinFast’s two manufacturing hubs in Hai Phong and Ha Tinh are ramping up production to meet year-end demand, as the firm eyes new records in the final quarter.
Duong Thi Thu Trang, global deputy CEO of sales and marketing, credited the company’s success to customer trust and the growing national commitment to sustainability. Industry experts said VinFast’s performance represents a major shift in Vietnam’s automotive landscape, as electric vehicles move from niche to mainstream. The achievement not only cements VinFast’s leadership in the domestic market but also underscores Vietnam’s transition toward a green, tech-driven mobility future.
https://news.tuoitre.vn/vinfast-sells-100000-vehicles-in-3-quarters-of-2025-103251013095453132.htm
Editor’s Note: VinFast has become the first Vietnamese carmaker to surpass 100,000 sales in 2025, led by strong demand for its compact VF 3 and sustained dominance as Vietnam’s top-selling brand for 11 months. This milestone marks a pivotal shift in the country’s automotive landscape, highlighting growing consumer trust and Vietnam’s transition toward sustainable, tech-driven mobility.
Vietnam Uses Supercomputer and AI to Revolutionize Storm and Flood Forecasting
The Vietnam Meteorological and Hydrological Administration (VMHA) has deployed a CrayXC40 supercomputer and advanced artificial intelligence (AI) applications to enhance the accuracy and timeliness of forecasts for storms, heavy rain, floods, and other natural disasters. Marking the sector’s 80th anniversary, the VMHA highlighted that the supercomputer, with nearly 80 TFLOPS of computing power, can generate high-resolution three-kilometer forecasts for the entire country and East Vietnam Sea in just 30–40 minutes. Coupled with AI-driven models, satellite and radar integration, and deep learning systems, the technology enables ultra-short-term (0–6 hours) warnings, early storm detection, and precise rainfall and landslide forecasts down to the commune level.
Over the past eight decades, the meteorological network has expanded to 2,807 stations nationwide, with significant automation in rainfall, lightning, hydrology, and marine observations. The AI-enhanced forecasting system has halved the average 48-hour storm position error, extended advance warnings to five days, and achieved 75 percent accuracy for heavy rain and flood predictions, while extreme temperature forecasts reach 70–90 percent reliability. The innovations, combined with upgraded radar networks and staff expertise, position Vietnam among the region’s leaders in computational meteorology, significantly improving disaster preparedness and public safety.
Editor’s Note: Vietnam has deployed a CrayXC40 supercomputer and AI-driven forecasting system to enhance storm and flood predictions, enabling ultra-short-term warnings and commune-level accuracy within 30–40 minutes. With expanded automation, improved radar networks, and 75% accuracy in heavy rain forecasts, the country is emerging as a regional leader in computational meteorology and disaster preparedness.
Haiphong Ignites Innovation Drive at TECHFEST 2025
TECHFEST Haiphong 2025, held from October 9, brought together innovators, entrepreneurs, policymakers, and researchers to celebrate creativity and collaboration, reinforcing Haiphong’s ambition to position innovation as the key driver of sustainable growth. Since its inception in 2017, the festival has become a major platform for promoting science, technology, and startup development, providing a space for ideas, technologies, and business opportunities to converge. Vice Chairman of Haiphong People’s Committee Hoang Minh Cuong emphasized that TECHFEST Haiphong connects ideas, resources, and markets, inspiring young people, intellectuals, and the business community while highlighting breakthroughs in technology, institutions, and human resources.
The three-day event featured 12 thematic sessions, attracting over 3,000 delegates and showcasing more than 1,000 technology products and innovative solutions from over 200 domestic and international enterprises. Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Hoang Minh noted that the festival demonstrates the close connection between innovation, digital transformation, and business development, forming the pillars of a modern economy. TECHFEST Haiphong 2025 also aligns with the city’s long-term vision from the first Haiphong Party Congress for 2026–2030, promoting science, technology, and innovation as engines of rapid and sustainable socioeconomic growth.
https://vir.com.vn/haiphong-ignites-innovation-drive-at-techfest-2025-138488.html
Editor’s Note: TECHFEST Haiphong 2025 gathered over 3,000 delegates and 200 enterprises to showcase innovation, technology, and startup development, reinforcing the city’s vision of sustainable growth through creativity and collaboration. With 12 thematic sessions and more than 1,000 tech solutions on display, the event highlighted Haiphong’s commitment to digital transformation and its strategic roadmap for 2026–2030.
Toyota to Invest $360 Million in Hybrid Electric Vehicle Production in Vietnam
Toyota Motor Vietnam (TMV) announced plans to invest over $360 million to modernize its new head office and plant to begin production of hybrid electric vehicles, marking a significant step in the company’s 30-year journey in Vietnam. The announcement was made during TMV’s 30th-anniversary ceremony in Hanoi on September 25, where President Nakano Keita highlighted the company’s commitment to sustainable growth and carbon-neutral mobility solutions for Vietnamese consumers. Over the past three decades, Toyota has produced more than 700,000 vehicles locally, delivered over one million cars, generated nearly $1 billion in export revenue from parts, and contributed more than $14.4 billion to the state budget.
Looking ahead, TMV aims to strengthen its local supply chain, which currently includes 61 suppliers and over 1,000 localized components, while supporting the development of higher-value technology and sustainable operations. Deputy CEO of Asia and CEO of Toyota Financial Services Asia, Hao Quoc Tien, emphasized Vietnam’s dynamic and youthful population, noting the country’s promising future and Toyota’s commitment to leveraging its multi-pathway technologies to meet the nation’s mobility needs. The investment underlines Toyota’s role in advancing Vietnam’s automotive industry toward innovation, sustainability, and long-term growth.
Editor’s Note: Toyota Motor Vietnam will invest over $360 million to begin hybrid electric vehicle production, marking a milestone in its 30-year journey and reinforcing its commitment to sustainable mobility. With a strong local supply chain and focus on advanced technologies, the move positions Toyota as a key driver of innovation and long-term growth in Vietnam’s automotive sector.
Vietnam and Europe to Strengthen Cooperation in Semiconductors, AI, and Digital Technologies
Vietnam and European partners are set to deepen collaboration in semiconductors, space technology, artificial intelligence, 5G/6G connectivity, and undersea cables, the Ministry of Science and Technology announced. An international forum titled “Expanding Digital Investment: Connecting European Tech Strengths with Vietnam’s Digital Future” will be held in Ho Chi Minh City on October 21, bringing together over 300 delegates including government officials, industry leaders, and technology experts. Co-organized by D4D Hub, the EU Delegation to Vietnam, AVSE Global, and EuroCham Vietnam, the event will feature sessions on semiconductor supply chains, AI, cloud and data sovereignty, advanced connectivity, and space technology, aiming to foster strategic partnerships and promote the European Tech-Business Solution Package in Vietnam.
The forum underscores Vietnam’s ambitious digital transformation goals, including a target to rank among the world’s top 30 digital nations by 2030, the establishment of its first semiconductor facility with a projected investment of US$500 million, and the training of 50,000 semiconductor engineers and 5,000 AI specialists. Vietnam also plans to expand submarine cable infrastructure with at least 10 new routes by 2030, increasing total capacity to 350 Tbps. The event will facilitate multi-stakeholder dialogue across public, private, academic, and financial sectors, reinforcing Vietnam’s emergence as a dynamic partner for European technology and investment in the region.
Editor’s Note: Vietnam and European partners are set to deepen cooperation in semiconductors, AI, space tech, and connectivity, with a major forum in Ho Chi Minh City on October 21 to foster strategic partnerships and promote the European Tech-Business Solution Package. Backed by ambitious goals like ranking among the top 30 digital nations by 2030 and expanding submarine cable infrastructure, Vietnam is positioning itself as a key regional partner for European tech and investment.
Thailand Emerges as a Global Hub for PCB Production
Thailand is rapidly positioning itself as a major regional and global hub for printed circuit board (PCB) production, with the Board of Investment (BOI) reporting 180 PCB projects valued at over 200 billion baht. Narit Therdsteerasukdi, Secretary-General of the BOI, highlighted that the surge in investment reflects global reliance on data, smart devices, and high-speed electronics, placing Thailand as the leading PCB producer in ASEAN and among the top five worldwide. Between 2022 and June 2025, the country saw 517 investment promotion applications in the semiconductor and advanced electronics sector totaling over 700 billion baht, demonstrating strong investor confidence in Thailand’s capabilities and ecosystem.
PCBs, the “main artery” of modern electronic devices, are critical for smartphones, AI servers, electric vehicles, medical equipment, and other smart technologies. Thailand’s complete ecosystem—from circuit design, PCB wafer production, testing, and assembly to finished smart products—enables the country to serve as a strategic link in the global semiconductor supply chain. Supported by stable clean energy, specialized industrial estates, skilled personnel, and government incentives, Thailand is attracting global firms seeking reliable, high-tech production bases. The country’s focus now includes workforce development and R&D hubs to sustain long-term growth and strengthen its position in the global electronics and semiconductor industries.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/investment/40056642
Editor’s Note: Thailand is emerging as a global hub for PCB production, with over 180 projects worth 200 billion baht and strong investor confidence reflected in 517 semiconductor-related applications since 2022. Backed by a complete electronics ecosystem, clean energy, skilled talent, and government incentives, the country is attracting global firms and investing in R&D and workforce development to solidify its role in the global semiconductor supply chain.
Thailand Drafts New Power Development Plan Amid Solar Surge
Thai authorities have begun drafting a new version of the nation’s power development plan (PDP) to manage long-term electricity supply, responding to a rapid rise in solar power generation, according to the Energy Policy and Planning Office (Eppo). Wattanapong Kurovat, Eppo’s director-general, said the PDP is expected to be introduced in 2026. The surge in solar installations, driven by declining panel costs and rising electricity bills, has pushed Thailand’s solar capacity to over 2 gigawatts last year, up from just a few kilowatts between 2015 and 2018. Officials noted that the intermittent nature of solar energy complicates grid management and requires robust backup systems to prevent supply disruptions.
The new plan also considers the aging of existing solar power facilities and Thailand’s modest economic growth outlook, which has slowed electricity consumption despite increases in electric vehicle use and data centre investments. Wattanapong emphasized the importance of preventing power shortages similar to blackouts seen earlier this year in Spain and Portugal, where reliance on renewables without adequate backup systems caused supply failures. Meanwhile, the Energy Regulatory Commission (ERC) expects electricity tariffs to remain stable at 3.94 baht per kilowatt-hour for the first four months of next year, with imported liquefied natural gas prices unlikely to fluctuate significantly despite higher winter demand.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3120492/new-power-plan-to-look-at-future-supply
Editor’s Note: Thailand is drafting a new Power Development Plan to address the rapid growth in solar energy, which has surpassed 2 gigawatts, while ensuring grid stability through robust backup systems. The plan, expected in 2026, also factors in aging solar infrastructure, modest economic growth, and aims to prevent power shortages, with electricity tariffs projected to remain stable despite seasonal LNG demand.
SCG ESG Symposium 2025 Charts Path for Thailand’s Green Transition
The Siam Cement Public Company Limited (SCG) convened its ESG Symposium 2025 to accelerate Thailand’s shift toward clean energy, climate resilience, and inclusive economic growth. Held under the theme “Green Breakthrough Amid the Perfect Storm: Accelerating with Green, Surviving Together,” the event brought together over 300 participants from government, business, and civil society to discuss actionable solutions for sustainable development. SCG President and CEO Thammasak Sethaudom emphasized the urgency of structural reforms in energy markets, promoting renewable adoption, and leveraging advanced technologies such as energy storage and hydrogen to strengthen grid stability, while also highlighting climate risks to urban areas through the Future Bangkok simulation.
The symposium also focused on empowering micro, small, and medium enterprises (MSMEs), which comprise 99.5% of Thailand’s businesses and employ over 13 million people. Experts called for targeted support including low-interest microfunds, green skills training, and One Stop Service centres to connect SMEs with finance, innovation, and global markets. SCG pledged to share its knowledge, data, and resources to help smaller enterprises benefit from scale and expertise, while pilot public-private partnership projects like the Saraburi Sandbox demonstrate practical models for low-carbon industry, renewable energy, and circular economy integration. The forum underscored that a collective, multi-sector effort is essential for Thailand to achieve a competitive, sustainable, and inclusive green economy.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3117761/esg-symposium-charts-path-to-green-transition
Editor’s Note: SCG’s ESG Symposium 2025 brought together over 300 stakeholders to advance Thailand’s green transition through clean energy, climate resilience, and support for MSMEs, emphasizing reforms in energy markets and technologies like hydrogen and storage. With initiatives like the Saraburi Sandbox and targeted SME support, the forum highlighted the need for collective action to build a competitive, inclusive, and sustainable economy.
Thailand Accelerates Toward Southeast Asia EV Hub Ambitions
Thailand is rapidly positioning itself as Southeast Asia’s premier electric vehicle (EV) manufacturing hub, driven by government incentives, foreign investment, and rising industrial real estate demand. The government’s 30@30 policy, targeting 30% of domestic vehicle production to be electric by 2030, along with the EV 3.5 incentive package for 2024–2027, has spurred a wave of investment and land development. Analysts from Jones Lang LaSalle (JLL) forecast that Thailand’s EV industry will generate a real estate market worth at least $6.5 billion (THB 220 billion) by 2030, reflecting growing interest in manufacturing facilities, R&D centers, and supporting infrastructure.
Foreign automakers and suppliers are increasingly establishing a presence, with Chinese and Japanese firms investing tens of billions of baht and Tesla opening a service and parts hub in Bangkok. Industrial estates in the Eastern Economic Corridor (EEC) are enabling foreign-majority companies to purchase land with regulatory flexibility, while developers consolidate large tracts to streamline entry for EV manufacturers. As Thailand seeks to produce over 34 GWh of batteries and expand advanced R&D by 2030, experts emphasize the importance of continued investment in manufacturing, real estate, and innovation to sustain momentum. With more than 167,000 EVs already on the roads by 2023, the kingdom is on track to cement its role as a regional EV leader, leveraging skilled labor, established automotive infrastructure, and a growing domestic market.
Editor’s Note: Thailand is accelerating its push to become Southeast Asia’s leading EV manufacturing hub, driven by government incentives like the 30@30 policy and EV 3.5 package, attracting major foreign investments and fueling a projected $6.5 billion real estate boom by 2030. With over 167,000 EVs already on the roads and expanding battery production and R&D, the country is leveraging its skilled workforce and infrastructure to solidify its regional leadership in electric mobility.
Thailand Introduces Electric ‘Flying’ Ferries for Sustainable Water Transport
Thailand is set to transform its water transport sector with the introduction of advanced electric hydrofoil ferries, following a deal signed in Bangkok between Swedish manufacturer Candela and Thai ferry operator Seudamgo, a service provider for Leopard Transportation Co., Ltd. The agreement covers the procurement of ten Candela P-12 vessels, which will initially operate on the route between the mainland and the tourist destination of Koh Kood in Trat province. The P-12’s innovative hydrofoil technology lifts the hull above the water, reducing drag and enabling the vessel to “fly” above waves, using up to 80% less energy than conventional speedboats while producing zero emissions, minimal noise, and negligible wake.
The ferries, designed for luxury and comfort, feature the upscale ‘Business’ version with seating for 20 passengers and a smooth ride powered by Candela’s digital Flight Control System, which automatically adjusts the hydrofoils to counteract pitching and slamming. Cruising at over 25 knots, the vessels can cover the 20-nautical mile route in just 40 minutes. Leopard Transportation CEO Surachai Suwanthanakul described the technology as a “game-changer” for sustainable maritime travel, highlighting its environmental benefits, superior passenger experience, and alignment with global trends in AI, IoT, and eco-friendly transport solutions in the speedboat market.
https://www.nationthailand.com/sustainability/net-zero/40056409
Editor’s Note: Thailand is revolutionizing water transport with electric hydrofoil ferries from Swedish firm Candela, which use 80% less energy and produce zero emissions while offering a smooth, high-speed ride between the mainland and Koh Kood. The luxury Candela P-12 vessels, equipped with advanced flight control systems, mark a major leap in sustainable maritime travel and align with global trends in AI, IoT, and eco-friendly mobility.
Thailand Strengthens Automation Leadership at Collaborate 2025
Universal Robots reinforced Thailand’s growing status as a regional automation hub by hosting Collaborate Thailand 2025, Southeast Asia’s largest collaborative robot (cobot) conference, in Bangkok on October 8. The event brought together over 350 industry leaders and decision-makers to explore the future of manufacturing automation, featuring live demonstrations of more than 15 cobots and AI-powered solutions designed to address challenges such as labour shortages, cost pressures, and complex production demands. Poi Toong Tang, Vice President for Asia Pacific at Teradyne Robotics, Universal Robots’ parent company, emphasized that automation is now a strategic imperative, shifting the conversation from “why” to “how fast” as Thailand advances its Industry 4.0 goals.
The conference showcased next-generation hardware, including the globally launched UR8 Long and the UR15, alongside regionally tailored models UR7e and UR12e. A highlight was Universal Robots’ AI Accelerator, powered by NVIDIA Jetson AGX Orin, enabling developers to build adaptive automation solutions for object detection, smart path planning, defect detection, and workspace calibration. Live demonstrations with ecosystem partners illustrated practical applications in pick-and-place operations, assembly, welding, inspection, and spraying, while Japanese automotive supplier Toyoda Gosei Thailand showcased a successful integration of cobots with traditional Karakuri craftsmanship. Colin Soh, Sales Director for Southeast Asia and Oceania at Teradyne Robotics, noted Thailand’s strong government support, skilled workforce, and robust manufacturing base as key factors positioning the country as a regional leader in automation.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40056751
Editor’s Note: Thailand reinforced its position as a regional automation leader at Collaborate Thailand 2025, where over 350 industry experts explored advanced cobot technologies and AI-powered manufacturing solutions. With strong government support and a skilled workforce, the event showcased next-gen hardware and practical applications, highlighting Thailand’s rapid progress toward Industry 4.0.