Vietnam Issues Decree 180 to Boost Innovation and Digital Transformation Through PPPs
Vietnam has issued Decree 180, providing detailed guidelines for implementing Resolution No. 193/2025/QH15, which introduces special pilot mechanisms to drive breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation. Effective from July 1, 2025—except for certain provisions in Articles 6, 19, and 22 that take effect on October 1—the decree aims to mobilize private sector resources for strategic industries through various public-private partnership (PPP) models. Key areas of application include high and strategic technologies, digital infrastructure, shared digital platforms, training of digital human resources, and other projects aligned with national priorities in science, technology, and innovation.
The decree outlines substantial incentives to encourage participation in PPP projects, such as a 200 percent tax deduction on R&D expenses, exemptions and reductions in land use fees, and recognition of ownership rights over research and innovation outcomes. It also introduces risk acceptance mechanisms for research failures and enables government procurement of products developed under PPPs. By providing transparent frameworks for intellectual property rights, revenue sharing, and data access, Decree 180 is expected to strengthen collaboration between government agencies, educational institutions, enterprises, and international stakeholders, solidifying Vietnam’s position as an emerging hub for innovation and digital transformation.
Editor’s Note: Vietnam’s Decree 180, effective July 1, 2025, introduces pilot mechanisms to accelerate innovation and digital transformation through public-private partnerships in strategic sectors like high technology, digital infrastructure, and human resource development. Offering generous incentives—including 200% R&D tax deductions, land fee exemptions, and IP rights recognition—the decree aims to foster collaboration across government, academia, industry, and international partners, positioning Vietnam as a rising innovation hub.
Apple Deepens Vietnam Supply Chain as Tariffs Push Diversification from China
Apple is rapidly expanding its manufacturing footprint in Vietnam, solidifying the country’s position as its largest Southeast Asian production base and the fourth worldwide after China, Taiwan, and Japan. According to its latest supplier list, the number of Apple suppliers with facilities in Vietnam rose from 27 in 2022 to 35 in 2023, operating 38 factories across provinces such as Bac Ninh, Bac Giang, and Hai Phong. The shift underscores Apple’s strategy to diversify away from China amid tariff uncertainties under renewed U.S. trade policies. In its Q2 2025 earnings announcement, CEO Tim Cook confirmed that the majority of iPads, Macs, Apple Watches, and AirPods sold in the U.S. would soon carry Vietnam as their country of origin, while iPhones would be primarily sourced from India.
Key suppliers driving Apple’s growth in Vietnam include Foxconn, Luxshare Precision, Goertek, and Chinese electronics giant Desay Group, which recently committed an additional US$25 million to expand operations in Bac Ninh. Apple’s Vietnam supply chain has already supported more than 200,000 jobs, with total investments reaching VND 400 trillion (US$16 billion) since 2019. Analysts project Vietnam could account for 65 percent of global AirPods production and 20 percent of iPad and Apple Watch output by 2025. With its deep-sea port in Hai Phong, skilled labor force, and close integration with Chinese supply chains, northern Vietnam has emerged as a strategic hub for Apple’s long-term growth and resilience in global manufacturing.
https://www.vietnam-briefing.com/news/apple-manufacturers-vietnam.html
Editor’s Note: Apple is rapidly expanding its manufacturing base in Vietnam—now its largest in Southeast Asia and fourth globally—as part of a strategic shift away from China amid U.S. tariff pressures, with most iPads, Macs, Watches, and AirPods soon to be Vietnam-made. Backed by key suppliers like Foxconn and Luxshare, Apple’s Vietnam operations have generated over 200,000 jobs and US$16 billion in investment, with projections showing Vietnam could produce 65% of global AirPods and 20% of iPads and Watches by 2025.
Danang Launches $72 Million Fab-Lab to Drive Semiconductor Ambitions
Danang marked a milestone in its semiconductor push on August 28 with the launch of a US$72 million Fab-Lab, a facility dedicated to semiconductor packaging technology. Covering more than 5,700 square meters, the lab features both R&D and trial production areas, with an annual design capacity of about 10 million products for domestic and international markets. Funded by VSAP LAB under the leadership of former Synopsys Vietnam technical director Nguyen Bao Anh, the project is seen as a catalyst for building a local semiconductor ecosystem. Officials, including Minister of Science and Technology Nguyen Manh Hung, emphasized that Fab-Lab will serve as a hub for innovation, talent training, technology transfer, and investment attraction, laying the groundwork for Danang’s aspiration to become a national high-tech center.
The city has set a goal of becoming one of Vietnam’s top three semiconductor hubs by 2030, with plans to train 5,000 high-quality engineers in design and packaging-testing. Already, the number of semiconductor-related enterprises in Danang has grown from eight to 25 within a year, supported by favorable policies, transparent governance, and strong university-business collaboration. Nearly 10 local universities and colleges are now offering microchip design majors, while initiatives such as student loan exemptions and expert housing support aim to attract and retain talent. Strategic partnerships with firms like FPT and Marvell, along with backing from international players and the U.S. government, position Danang as a rising hub in the global semiconductor value chain.
Editor’s Note: Danang has launched a US$72 million Fab-Lab focused on semiconductor packaging, aiming to become one of Vietnam’s top three chip hubs by 2030 through innovation, talent development, and strategic partnerships. Backed by VSAP LAB and international players, the city is rapidly expanding its ecosystem with 25 semiconductor firms, 10 universities offering microchip majors, and initiatives to attract skilled engineers and global investment.
Vingroup Signs Renewable Energy MoU with South Sulawesi Partner in Indonesia
Vietnam’s Vingroup has signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) with PT. Sulsel Andalan Energi to jointly develop renewable energy projects in Indonesia’s South Sulawesi province. The agreement, witnessed by Governor Andi Sudirman Sulaiman, outlines plans for solar farms ranging from one megawatt to one gigawatt in capacity, including both land-based and floating installations. The collaboration will also cover energy storage integration and grid connection studies, with Vingroup contributing expertise in green technologies and PT. Sulsel Andalan Energi providing regulatory and infrastructure support. Beyond renewable energy, the two sides are exploring partnerships in smart city initiatives, healthcare infrastructure, and affordable housing.
The MoU reflects Vingroup’s ambition to expand its green energy and sustainable infrastructure portfolio across Southeast Asia while reinforcing Vietnam’s position on the global clean energy map. South Sulawesi authorities are also considering the deployment of VinFast electric buses, promotion of EV adoption among civil servants, and expansion of GSM’s electric taxi services, alongside the rollout of V-Green’s EV charging network. With Indonesia offering strong solar potential and Vingroup already introducing VinFast EVs and preparing an assembly plant in the country, the partnership signals a broader commitment to building a full “For a Green Future” ecosystem across the region.
Editor’s Note: Vingroup has signed an MoU with PT. Sulsel Andalan Energi to develop solar farms and renewable energy infrastructure in South Sulawesi, Indonesia, while also exploring collaborations in smart cities, healthcare, and housing. The partnership supports Vingroup’s regional green ambitions, with plans for VinFast EV deployment, charging networks, and a local assembly plant, reinforcing Vietnam’s leadership in sustainable innovation across Southeast Asia.
Bosch Engineering and Siam Racing Automobiles Partner to Advance High-Performance EVs in Thailand
Bosch Engineering and Siam Racing Automobiles (SRA) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) to jointly develop high-performance subsystems for battery-electric vehicles, including hypercars and supercars. The collaboration will focus on electric powertrain architecture, energy systems, vehicle control technologies, and production-oriented engineering, with the goal of accelerating the industrialization of advanced electric mobility solutions. Bosch Engineering President Johannes-Joerg Rueger said the partnership reflects Bosch’s commitment to delivering breakthrough technologies and driving innovation in high-performance electric mobility.
The partnership is also a milestone for Thailand’s automotive industry, reinforcing its role as a hub for advanced mobility and sustainable innovation. By combining Bosch’s global engineering expertise with SRA’s local capabilities, the collaboration is expected to foster transformative growth in the EV segment. Joseph Hong, Managing Director of Bosch Thailand and Laos, highlighted that the initiative would also invest in local talent through training, knowledge exchange, and joint engineering programs, empowering Thai engineers and researchers to shape the future of electric mobility.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/corporate/40055821
Editor’s Note: Bosch Engineering and Siam Racing Automobiles have partnered to co-develop high-performance EV subsystems for hypercars and supercars, aiming to accelerate advanced electric mobility through cutting-edge powertrain and control technologies. The collaboration marks a milestone for Thailand’s automotive sector, combining global expertise with local talent development to position the country as a hub for sustainable innovation.
Thailand’s DE Ministry Expands Digital Community Centres to Bridge Digital Divide
The Digital Economy and Society Ministry (DE Ministry) has opened a new digital community centre at its Bangkok headquarters as part of its nationwide plan to expand learning hubs and reduce the digital divide. The launch, held under the theme “Digital for All – Local Empowerment,” marked the ministry’s ninth anniversary and was presided over by Permanent Secretary Wisit Wisitsora-at. Located in Building C of the Government Complex on Chaeng Watthana Road, the centre is designed to serve as a public hub for learning and access to online resources, with the ministry expecting strong participation from people of all ages.
So far, 1,722 digital community centres have been established across Thailand, with 500 more under development and another 1,200 planned. These centres provide broadband internet, computers with office software, multifunction printers, and CCTV, supporting grassroots access to e-commerce, lifelong learning, and digital literacy. The initiative underscores the government’s commitment to equipping citizens with essential digital skills while strengthening community participation in the digital economy.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40055680
Editor’s Note: Thailand’s Digital Economy and Society Ministry has launched a new digital community centre in Bangkok as part of its nationwide effort to bridge the digital divide and empower citizens through access to online resources and learning. With 1,722 centres already established and 1,700 more planned, the initiative provides broadband, computers, and training tools to support e-commerce, lifelong learning, and digital literacy across communities.
Thailand Ramps Up EV Ambitions with $6.5 Billion Real Estate Boom by 2030
Thailand is accelerating its bid to become Southeast Asia’s leading electric vehicle (EV) hub, powered by government incentives, foreign investment, and a surging demand for industrial real estate. Under the government’s 30@30 policy, which targets 30 percent of domestic vehicle production to be electric by 2030, the EV 3.5 incentive package (2024–2027) has attracted billions in investment from global automakers. Chinese firms, led by BYD, have poured nearly THB 49 billion into EV facilities, while Japanese manufacturers have invested more than THB 150 billion, and Tesla has opened a full-service centre and parts warehouse in Bangkok. Analysts from JLL estimate that the EV industry will create an industrial real estate market worth at least US$6.5 billion (THB 220 billion) by the end of the decade.
Beyond vehicle assembly, Thailand is drawing investment in research, development, and supporting infrastructure, with Hyundai and CATARC already operating R&D centres. Exemptions under the Industrial Estate Authority of Thailand (IEAT) and Board of Investment (BOI) have further boosted land access for foreign-majority firms, particularly in the Eastern Economic Corridor, where developers are consolidating EV-focused estates. With more than 167,000 EVs already on the road by the end of 2023—over a quarter of its 2030 target—Thailand is gaining momentum. Industry experts note that alongside incentives, the nation’s skilled workforce, established auto sector, and expanding consumer market position it strongly to become a long-term global player in electric mobility.
Editor’s Note: Thailand is fast-tracking its electric vehicle ambitions under the 30@30 policy, attracting billions in investment from global automakers like BYD, Tesla, and Japanese firms, with the EV sector expected to drive a US$6.5 billion industrial real estate boom by 2030. With over 167,000 EVs already on the road and strong support for R&D, infrastructure, and foreign investment, Thailand is positioning itself as a leading global hub for electric mobility.
VNPT Explores AI Home Partnership with True Digital to Accelerate Vietnam’s Smart Living Push
Vietnam Posts and Telecommunications Group (VNPT) is in talks with Thailand’s True Digital and T3 Technology to bring AI-powered home solutions to Vietnam, aiming to accelerate the nation’s smart home ecosystem. The collaboration could introduce advanced applications such as AI voice assistants, smart entertainment platforms, and connected security systems, tapping into Vietnam’s rising internet penetration and growing consumer appetite for smart living. Analysts highlight the potential for Vietnam to become one of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic smart home markets, with the partnership positioning VNPT to expand its service portfolio and enhance customer loyalty.
True Digital, already a leader in Thailand’s AI home sector, has built an ecosystem spanning routers, AI speakers, IoT integration, and multi-language voice interaction, setting a regional benchmark. By adopting these capabilities, VNPT could fast-track the rollout of localized solutions tailored to Vietnamese households while boosting average revenue per user. Observers suggest the partnership could also support cross-border integration of smart homes and smart cities, advancing Southeast Asia’s digital transformation and placing Vietnam at the forefront of the region’s AI-driven smart home revolution.
Editor’s Note: VNPT is partnering with Thailand’s True Digital and T3 Technology to introduce AI-powered home solutions in Vietnam, aiming to accelerate smart living through voice assistants, entertainment platforms, and connected security systems. Leveraging True Digital’s ecosystem and Vietnam’s rising digital adoption, the collaboration could drive localized innovation, boost user engagement, and position Vietnam as a regional leader in AI-driven smart home and smart city integration.
Omoda & Jaecoo Eyes BEV Exports from Thailand Under Incentive Scheme
Omoda & Jaecoo (Thailand), a subsidiary of China’s Chery Automobile, plans to export battery electric vehicles (BEVs) from its new factory in Rayong to benefit from Thailand’s EV3.5 incentive programme, which rewards manufacturers producing BEVs for export. The move follows a July decision by the National EV Policy Committee to ease local production requirements for companies under the EV3.0 and EV3.5 schemes, allowing exported BEVs to count as 1.5 units toward production quotas. The Rayong plant, built at a cost of 5 billion baht, is set to begin operations in the final quarter of this year with annual production capacity projected at 80,000 units from 2026 to 2030.
Bill Zhang, country director of Omoda & Jaecoo, said the company is finalising its production and export strategy based on global EV demand and supply. Backed by tax incentives under EV3.5, the automaker expects to sell 10,000 vehicles in Thailand this year and aims to reach 25,000 units by 2026. Globally, Omoda & Jaecoo sold 211,682 units between January and August, with operations expanding across three countries—new energy vehicle production in Thailand, plug-in hybrid EVs in Malaysia, and internal combustion engines in Indonesia. The company shares production facilities locally with Chery Automobile, which operates a separate BEV business in Thailand.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/motoring/3112376/omoda-jaecoo-to-ramp-up-ev-exports
Editor’s Note: Omoda & Jaecoo (Thailand), a subsidiary of Chery Automobile, plans to export BEVs from its new Rayong factory under Thailand’s EV3.5 incentive scheme, which eases production quotas and supports global expansion. With a projected annual capacity of 80,000 units and operations across Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, the company aims to sell 25,000 vehicles locally by 2026 while leveraging tax benefits and rising global EV demand.
Suzuki Rejects BEV Production, Focuses on Hybrids and Fuel Cell Vehicles
Suzuki Motor Corporation has reaffirmed its stance against investing in battery electric vehicles (BEVs), despite rising global demand, choosing instead to develop hybrid electric vehicles (HEVs) and fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). Masafumi Harano, the company’s executive general manager for automobile marketing in Asia, Latin America, and Oceania, said BEVs are “not the only solution” to achieving net-zero emissions, noting that HEV demand is increasing while FCEVs offer long-term potential through hydrogen-powered fuel cells.
Harano acknowledged that sluggish auto markets in Southeast Asia, including Thailand, are being weighed down by weak purchasing power, tight lending conditions, and intensifying competition. He expressed hope that government stimulus and eased auto financing could help revive sales. Suzuki, meanwhile, is targeting growth through new models, including the hybrid SUV Fronx, launched yesterday in Thailand with a sales goal of 8,000 units this year — a 41% rise from 2024.
Editor’s Note: Suzuki Motor Corporation is steering away from BEVs to focus on hybrids and fuel cell vehicles, citing rising HEV demand and the long-term promise of hydrogen-powered FCEVs. Despite challenges in Southeast Asia’s auto market, Suzuki aims to boost sales through new models like the hybrid SUV Fronx, targeting 8,000 units in Thailand this year—a 41% increase from 2024.
Apple Urges EU to Repeal Digital Markets Act Citing Security and User Concerns
Apple has called on the European Union to scrap its Digital Markets Act (DMA), claiming the law exposes users to security risks and disrupts the seamless operation of its products in the bloc. In a formal submission to the European Commission, the US tech giant argued that the DMA, designed to create a fairer digital market, has forced it to delay features such as live translation for AirPods in Europe. Apple suggested that if the law is not repealed, enforcement should be handled by an independent European agency rather than the commission. The move comes amid broader US pressure on the EU under President Donald Trump, as well as ongoing tensions between Brussels and Big Tech over market dominance.
The DMA requires companies like Apple to enable interoperability with third-party devices and offer alternative options for apps and services, with violations subject to heavy fines. Apple has already appealed a 500-million-euro fine under the law, while separately facing a 1.8-billion-euro fine under other EU competition rules. The company argued that new regulatory obligations have caused delays in rolling out features to European users, with growing complaints cited over DMA-driven changes. The European Commission responded that additional engineering time is normal to ensure compliance and that it is assisting companies in adapting to the law, which has been enforced since March 2024.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/3110596/apple-asks-eu-to-scrap-digital-competition-law
Editor’s Note: Apple has urged the EU to repeal its Digital Markets Act, arguing it compromises user security and delays product features like AirPods’ live translation, while calling for enforcement by an independent agency. Facing billions in fines and regulatory obligations, Apple claims the law disrupts seamless operations, though the European Commission maintains that compliance adjustments are standard and ongoing support is being provided.