Vietnam Hosts AISC 2025 to Strengthen AI and Semiconductor Leadership
The Artificial Intelligence and Semiconductor Conference (AISC) 2025 has kicked off, reaffirming Vietnam’s role in the global semiconductor and AI industries. The event, attended by leading experts and government officials, explores cutting-edge advancements, including AI-driven chip design and open-source innovations. Vu Quoc Huy, director of the National Innovation Center (NIC), highlighted AISC’s role in boosting Vietnam’s high-tech sector and global integration. Notably, the open-source AI model SemiKong, developed by Aitomatic, Tokyo Electron, and FPT Software, was introduced, promising to revolutionize chip production with enhanced speed and accuracy.
The conference features insights from industry leaders, including Anna Goldie from Google DeepMind, who presented AlphaChip, and researchers from Stanford and the University of Warwick discussing AI applications in semiconductor production. A highlight of AISC 2025 is the Startup Pavilion, an international investment platform where Vietnamese tech firms pitch ideas to global investors. The three-day event, held at the National Convention Centre and NIC’s Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park, includes workshops and a policy forum with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, underscoring Vietnam’s commitment to advancing its AI and semiconductor industries.
https://vir.com.vn/aisc-2025-vietnams-new-role-in-ai-and-semiconductors-124361.html
Editor’s Note: Vietnam’s Artificial Intelligence and Semiconductor Conference (AISC) 2025 showcases the country’s growing leadership in AI and semiconductor innovation, featuring advancements like the SemiKong open-source AI model and presentations from experts such as Anna Goldie from Google DeepMind. The event also highlights Vietnam’s commitment to high-tech growth with a Startup Pavilion for global investment and a policy forum with Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh.
Vietnam Advances Semiconductor and AI Sectors with New Policies
The National Assembly has approved a new resolution introducing key policies to boost science, technology, and digital transformation. A major highlight is Article 17, which provides up to 30% financial support—capped at VND12.8 trillion ($512 million)—for the construction of a semiconductor chip and high-tech manufacturing facility led by Viettel under the Ministry of Defence. Additionally, Article 14 outlines state-funded incentives for deploying 20,000 5G base transceiver stations (BTS) in 2025, using revenue from radio frequency licensing fees. The resolution also ensures protection for researchers engaged in state-funded projects, exempting them from financial liability if their efforts do not yield expected results.
The resolution aligns with the Politburo’s Resolution 57 on fostering innovation and digital transformation, reinforcing Vietnam’s long-term commitment to high-tech advancements. To support this vision, the government has launched an investment support fund, offering financial aid for research and development in semiconductors, AI, and digital infrastructure. Despite Vietnam’s rise as the third-largest semiconductor exporter to the U.S., the World Bank warns of a skilled labor shortage, with a third of employers struggling to fill key positions. As Vietnam strengthens its role in the global digital economy, policymakers stress the need for workforce development to sustain growth in high-value tech industries.
https://vir.com.vn/high-tech-transition-plans-reach-new-stage-124018.html
Editor’s Note: Vietnam’s National Assembly has approved new policies to enhance the semiconductor and AI sectors, including financial support for Viettel’s chip manufacturing facility and incentives for deploying 20,000 5G base stations. The resolution also includes protections for researchers working on state-funded projects and a fund to support R&D in high-tech industries. While Vietnam is emerging as a major semiconductor exporter, concerns remain about a skilled labor shortage, which policymakers are addressing through workforce development initiatives.
FPT Signs $67 Million Digital Transformation Deal with Indonesia’s KMP Aryadhana
Vietnamese tech giant FPT Corporation has signed a $67 million master service agreement with Indonesia’s KMP Aryadhana to drive digital transformation and sustainability initiatives. The five-year deal, signed during Vietnamese Party General Secretary To Lam’s state visit to Indonesia, focuses on integrating advanced technologies such as AI, blockchain, IoT, and cloud computing into key sectors, including waste management, digital education, and smart agriculture. The partnership will also establish an AI research lab and expand ESG-driven digital transformation efforts beyond Yogyakarta to a national and global scale.
FPT CEO Nguyen Van Khoa emphasized that the collaboration strengthens Vietnam-Indonesia ties while enhancing FPT’s global presence in emerging technologies. Meanwhile, KMP Aryadhana chairman Prof. Dr. Ahmad Subagyo highlighted FPT’s technological expertise and international vision as critical to advancing ESG programs and digital education in Indonesia. The agreement marks a significant step in accelerating Indonesia’s digital transformation, reinforcing both nations’ commitment to innovation and sustainability.
Editor’s Note: FPT Corporation has signed a $67 million deal with Indonesia’s KMP Aryadhana to drive digital transformation in sectors like waste management, education, and agriculture, integrating AI, blockchain, IoT, and cloud computing. The five-year partnership, which includes an AI research lab and ESG initiatives, strengthens Vietnam-Indonesia ties and boosts FPT’s global presence in emerging technologies.
Ho Chi Minh City to Train 9,000 Semiconductor Experts by 2030
In a bid to become a regional semiconductor hub, Ho Chi Minh City has unveiled an ambitious plan to train at least 9,000 highly skilled professionals with university degrees or higher in the semiconductor industry by 2030. The initiative includes financial incentives, scholarships, and specialized courses in semiconductor and microchip design, with key universities such as Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City and Saigon University spearheading training efforts. To further enhance workforce skills, the city is considering a $5 million microchip design workforce development fund and will offer online and blended learning options to expand accessibility.
Beyond workforce development, Ho Chi Minh City aims to attract global semiconductor firms by improving infrastructure, expanding R&D, and fostering a startup ecosystem. Plans include the establishment of an international-standard research and development center, a high-performance computing center at Quang Trung Software Park, and a national-level shared laboratory at Vietnam National University. To encourage investment, tax incentives and interest rate support will be offered to experts and strategic investors. Additionally, annual competitions will be held to drive innovation, solidifying the city’s position in the global semiconductor industry.
Editor’s Note: Ho Chi Minh City plans to train 9,000 semiconductor professionals by 2030 through university programs, scholarships, and specialized courses, with a $5 million microchip design fund to enhance skills. The city also aims to attract global semiconductor firms by improving infrastructure, expanding R&D, and offering tax incentives and innovation competitions.
Krungsri Finnovate to Invest 520 Million Baht in Tech Startups Across Asia
Krungsri Finnovate (KFin), the corporate venture capital arm of Krungsri (Bank of Ayudhya), has announced plans to invest 520 million baht in tech startups across Thailand and the region in 2024. Through its flagship Finnoventure Private Equity Trust I, KFin is allocating 400 million baht to six startups in Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, and the Philippines, focusing on Series A and later-stage companies. Additionally, KFin has launched Finno Efra, a new private equity trust in collaboration with Efra Structure, with a 50-million-baht investment budget to support emerging tech startups. The Finno Efra Accelerator Programme, aimed at nurturing early-stage startups, has already attracted over 200 applicants, with 12 finalists receiving mentorship and venture support.
With a total fund size of 4.04 billion baht, KFin has invested in 25 startups, including four unicorns—Grab, Flash Express, Klook, and Ascend Money—some of which are preparing for IPOs. This year, KFin has also earmarked 50 million baht for seed to pre-Series A investments, with 60% dedicated to Thai startups and 40% to regional ventures. Acting managing director Palida Artispong highlighted KFin’s strong return expectations, citing an eight-year investment period for Finno Efra with an estimated 25% annual ROI. The firm remains committed to fostering innovation in AI, deep tech, HR tech, health tech, and property tech, solidifying its position as a key player in Asia’s startup ecosystem.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2978938/kfin-plans-to-sink-b520m-into-startups
Editor’s Note: Krungsri Finnovate (KFin) plans to invest 520 million baht in tech startups across Thailand and Southeast Asia in 2024, focusing on Series A and later-stage companies, with additional support for emerging startups through its new Finno Efra trust. The firm, which has invested in 25 startups, including four unicorns, aims for a 25% annual ROI and continues to support innovation in AI, deep tech, and other sectors.
China’s Sunwoda to Invest $1 Billion in Thailand’s EV Battery Sector
China’s Sunwoda Electronic has secured approval from Thailand’s Board of Investment (BoI) for a $1 billion investment to establish an electric vehicle (EV) battery manufacturing plant. The Shenzhen-based firm will create 1,000 jobs at the facility, which will focus on producing lithium-ion battery cells for EV manufacturers while also housing research and product development operations. The investment marks the latest in a series of EV-related projects in Thailand, as the nation continues to attract global players in the industry.
Thailand, Southeast Asia’s largest auto manufacturing hub, has seen growing EV investments from Chinese automakers like BYD and Great Wall Motor, with total commitments exceeding 102 billion baht. However, the country’s automotive sector is struggling, with output falling 10% last year to a four-year low, while domestic sales and exports dropped 26% and 8.8%, respectively. In response, the Thai government is introducing tax incentives for plug-in hybrid vehicles and credit guarantees for pickup truck purchases, while Japanese automakers are pushing for a vehicle trade-in and scrapping scheme to boost sales.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2979161/chinese-ev-battery-maker-plans-1bn-thai-plant
Editor’s Note: China’s Sunwoda Electronic has secured approval for a $1 billion investment to build an EV battery manufacturing plant in Thailand, creating 1,000 jobs and focusing on lithium-ion battery production. This marks a significant step in Thailand’s growing EV sector, which has seen substantial investments despite challenges in the automotive industry.
AWS Advances Sustainability with Renewable Energy and Efficiency Innovations
Amazon Web Services (AWS) is strengthening its commitment to sustainability by prioritizing carbon-free energy and energy-efficient operations, aligning with Amazon’s Climate Pledge to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. Annabel Lee, head of policy for ASEAN at AWS, highlighted the company’s focus on designing energy-efficient data centers, including the use of liquid cooling for AI workloads and reducing stranded power. AWS’s custom-built Trainium AI chips have also improved efficiency, with the latest Trainium 2 chip being three times more energy-efficient than its predecessor. Additionally, AWS met its goal of matching global operations with 100% renewable energy in 2023, seven years ahead of schedule, by investing in over 600 solar and wind projects worldwide.
AWS is also supporting Southeast Asia’s clean energy transition by collaborating with governments and industries to expand renewable energy procurement options. The company is actively working with organizations like the Asia Clean Energy Coalition to push for regulatory frameworks that enable businesses to access affordable renewable energy. In Thailand, AWS is exploring investment opportunities in renewable energy projects and working with local startups like Energy Response Co Ltd to enhance energy efficiency using AI solutions. With corporate renewable energy investments driving new clean energy projects worldwide, AWS continues to advocate for policy changes that allow direct procurement of renewable energy, helping to decarbonize power grids while fostering economic growth and job creation.
https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/general/2976548/aws-touts-continuous-innovation
Editor’s Note: Amazon Web Services (AWS) is advancing sustainability by prioritizing carbon-free energy and energy-efficient operations, achieving 100% renewable energy in 2023 and developing energy-efficient technologies like its Trainium AI chips. The company is also supporting Southeast Asia’s clean energy transition through collaborations with governments and startups, while advocating for policies that enable direct renewable energy procurement and drive economic growth.
Cybersecurity Demand Surges as Threats Rise, Salaries Exceed THB 100K
With cyber threats escalating worldwide, businesses and organizations are facing increased risks of data breaches, cyberattacks, and digital sabotage, fueling a sharp rise in demand for cybersecurity professionals. Reports compiled by Thansettakij indicate that cybersecurity roles are among the fastest-growing professions globally, as companies strengthen their defenses against online crime. The industry offers highly competitive salaries, with specialized roles such as cybersecurity engineers, ethical hackers, and cloud security specialists earning upwards of THB 100,000 per month, depending on expertise and experience.
The growing adoption of artificial intelligence, Big Data, IoT, and cloud computing has further intensified the need for cybersecurity experts. High-paying positions in the field include network security architects, penetration testers, and application security engineers, with salaries ranging from THB 26,500 to over THB 135,000. As organizations continue to invest in digital security, cybersecurity remains one of the most stable and sought-after careers in the digital age, offering lucrative opportunities for professionals with the right skill set.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40047161
Editor’s Note: As cyber threats rise globally, demand for cybersecurity professionals has surged, with specialized roles such as engineers, ethical hackers, and cloud security specialists earning over THB 100,000 per month. The increasing adoption of AI, Big Data, IoT, and cloud computing has further driven the need for experts, with high-paying positions offering salaries from THB 26,500 to over THB 135,000. Cybersecurity remains a stable and lucrative career, with strong growth prospects for skilled professionals.
Cross-Border GenAI Misuse to Cause 40% of AI Data Breaches by 2027: Gartner
By 2027, more than 40% of AI-related data breaches will result from the improper use of generative AI (GenAI) across international borders, according to a report by Gartner, Inc. The rapid adoption of GenAI has outpaced the development of robust data governance and security measures, raising concerns about data localisation and compliance with international regulations. The absence of global best practices has led to market fragmentation, forcing companies to adopt region-specific strategies that may hinder global scalability. Gartner also predicts that AI governance will become a mandatory requirement under sovereign AI regulations worldwide.
To mitigate risks, Gartner recommends that enterprises strengthen data governance, establish AI governance committees, and enhance data security through encryption and anonymisation technologies. Businesses should also invest in trust, risk, and security management (TRiSM) products tailored for AI, as those implementing AI TRiSM controls could reduce reliance on inaccurate or illegitimate data by at least 50% by 2026. Companies that fail to integrate these governance models risk falling behind competitors and facing compliance challenges as AI regulations tighten globally.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40047083
Editor’s Note: By 2027, over 40% of AI-related data breaches will result from the misuse of generative AI across borders, as the rapid adoption of GenAI outpaces data governance and security measures, according to Gartner. The report highlights concerns about data localization, international compliance, and fragmented market strategies that hinder global scalability. Gartner recommends strengthening data governance, establishing AI governance committees, and investing in AI trust, risk, and security management (TRiSM) to mitigate risks and meet evolving regulations.
Thailand Poised to Attract Semiconductor Investments Amid Global Shifts
Thailand and other ASEAN nations are set to remain key players in the semiconductor industry despite global pressures, thanks to lower costs and strong partnerships in electronics manufacturing. Rujipun Assarut, a senior researcher at Kasikorn Research Center, noted that while the U.S. is pushing for self-reliance in chip production, higher domestic costs pose challenges. With its established role in electric vehicle (EV) production and a growing digital economy, Thailand offers “great market potential” for semiconductor investments. The country ranked second behind India among top emerging economies for semiconductor manufacturing, according to A.T. Kearney, and saw a 35% rise in foreign investment applications last year.
However, geopolitical tensions and U.S. protectionist policies are reshaping global supply chains. Gartner vice president Sheng Linghai warned that Washington’s tariffs and sanctions on Chinese tech firms could disrupt global semiconductor markets. He urged Southeast Asian firms to collaborate and invest in homegrown chip technologies to bolster resilience. Meanwhile, Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra emphasized that semiconductor manufacturing, alongside EV production, could serve as a key economic driver for the region, positioning Thailand as a crucial hub in the shifting global semiconductor landscape.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40047075
Editor’s Note: Thailand is set to attract semiconductor investments due to lower costs, strong manufacturing partnerships, and its growing digital economy, with the country ranking second among emerging economies for semiconductor manufacturing. Despite global challenges, including U.S. protectionist policies and geopolitical tensions, Thailand’s established role in EV production enhances its appeal for semiconductor investments. Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra highlighted semiconductor manufacturing and EV production as key drivers of the region’s economic growth and resilience in the evolving global market.
Thai Government Blocks Over 80,000 Illegal Websites in Cybercrime Crackdown
The Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has intensified its fight against online crime, blocking 80,669 illegal websites, pages, and URLs over the past five months—a 1.5-fold increase from the same period last year. Deputy government spokesperson Sasikarn Wattanachan stated that the effort aligns with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s directive for urgent action against cybercrime. The crackdown, averaging 16,133 blocks per month between October and February, targeted online gambling (31,832 cases), misinformation and fraud (21,939 cases), and other unlawful content (26,898 cases), which saw a dramatic 6.5-fold increase compared to last year.
The spokesperson emphasized the government’s commitment to protecting citizens from online threats by dismantling the digital infrastructure used by cybercriminals. The ministry’s proactive measures aim to create a safer online environment as cybercrime surges nationwide. The reduction in misinformation and fraud-related blocks compared to last year suggests that these efforts may already be making an impact, but officials remain vigilant in their mission to combat digital crime.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40047053
Editor’s Note: Thailand’s Ministry of Digital Economy and Society has blocked over 80,000 illegal websites in a five-month cybercrime crackdown, targeting online gambling, misinformation, fraud, and other unlawful content. The initiative, aligned with Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra’s directive, aims to create a safer online environment, with notable progress in reducing misinformation and fraud-related offenses.
Microsoft Predicts Surge in AI Adoption for Operational Efficiency
More organisations are set to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance efficiency and remain competitive, according to Dhanawat Suthumpun, managing director of Microsoft Thailand. He noted that AI tools such as OpenAI’s ChatGPT and Microsoft’s Copilot have become widely known, and this year will see businesses moving beyond experimentation to full-scale adoption. Microsoft’s recent survey of 226 leading organisations across nine countries highlighted a shift in workplace priorities, with companies focusing not only on sales and profit but also on productivity, teamwork, and organisational culture.
To support innovation and collaboration, Microsoft Thailand has inaugurated a new office at One Bangkok in Pathumwan, designed to foster a data-driven and flexible work environment. The modern workspace aligns with Microsoft’s commitment to empowering businesses through AI and digital transformation. Dhanawat stressed the importance of AI in solving global and local challenges, encouraging businesses to integrate AI-driven solutions to drive growth, efficiency, and employee well-being.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40046870
Editor’s Note: Microsoft predicts a surge in AI adoption as businesses move from experimentation to full-scale implementation to boost efficiency and competitiveness. To support this shift, Microsoft Thailand has opened a new office in One Bangkok, focusing on fostering innovation, collaboration, and AI-driven solutions for growth and productivity.