ACCA Highlights Role of Finance in Sustainable Development at Conference
A recent conference brought together industry leaders to discuss key topics such as international standards for carbon emission management, technology-driven cost optimisation, and ESG policy evaluation. The event served as a platform for businesses to share insights and challenges in sustainability, featuring contributions from organisations like VACPA, FPT, Unilever, HDBank, PwC, and the University of Economics in Ho Chi Minh City. Ren Varma, head of Mainland Southeast Asia for ACCA, highlighted Vietnam’s strong trade performance and the growing integration of domestic enterprises into global supply chains, particularly in the EU market, which exceeded $67 billion in trade.
During the event, ACCA reaffirmed its commitment to supporting businesses with the launch of a professional diploma in Sustainability, aimed at equipping professionals with essential expertise in sustainability reporting, strategic management, and compliance with international standards. In collaboration with VACPA and PwC Vietnam, ACCA established a forum to help local firms align with global sustainability practices. Varma emphasised the crucial role of finance professionals in driving sustainable strategies, ensuring transparency, and accurately measuring business impact. ACCA pledged continued support to enhance sustainability competencies, reinforcing its commitment to fostering a responsible and sustainable economy.
Editor’s Note: At a recent conference, ACCA emphasized the role of finance professionals in driving sustainability, featuring discussions on carbon emission management, technology-driven cost optimization, and ESG policies. The event also saw the launch of a professional diploma in Sustainability, aimed at enhancing expertise in sustainability reporting and management, with support from VACPA, PwC Vietnam, and the University of Economics in Ho Chi Minh City.
Vietnam’s IC Design Industry Sees Rising Demand Amid Talent Shortage
Industry leaders at an IC design competition in Ho Chi Minh City on Sunday highlighted the growing demand for semiconductor engineers in Vietnam, with job opportunities expected to remain strong through 2026. Koh Siang Yong Kevin, CEO of Faraday Technology Vietnam, emphasized the surge in semiconductor projects, particularly in automotive and AI computing, while citing MediaTek’s ongoing struggle to fill engineering roles despite employing 20,000 engineers. David Nghiem, founder of Global Wireless Technology, urged Vietnam to invest in advanced training programs to equip engineers with specialized skills crucial for the industry’s growth.
Assoc. Prof. Le Quoc Cuong of the Saigon High-Tech Park Management Authority underscored the importance of semiconductors in AI, IoT, and digital transformation, calling them key to Vietnam’s economic future. The annual IC design competition, now a national event, reflects the enthusiasm of Vietnam’s young engineers, with 68 teams from across the country competing. Preliminary rounds took place in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and Da Nang on Sunday, with the final showdown set for May.
Editor’s Note: At an IC design competition in Ho Chi Minh City, industry leaders highlighted the growing demand for semiconductor engineers in Vietnam, with job opportunities expected to remain strong until 2026. Faraday Technology Vietnam’s CEO, Koh Siang Yong Kevin, emphasized the surge in semiconductor projects in automotive and AI sectors, while MediaTek struggles to fill engineering roles. Experts, including Assoc. Prof. Le Quoc Cuong, called for investment in advanced training programs to equip engineers with specialized skills for Vietnam’s future in AI, IoT, and digital transformation.
Vietnam Leads Asia-Pacific in AI Adoption Among Small Businesses, Survey Finds
Vietnam’s small businesses are at the forefront of digital transformation in the Asia-Pacific region, ranking first in AI investment and technology adoption, according to CPA Australia’s 2024-25 Small Business Survey. The report, released in Ho Chi Minh City, revealed that 44% of Vietnamese small firms prioritized AI investment in 2024, doubling from the previous year, while 47% used AI tools for business decision-making, the highest in the region. E-commerce, social media, and digital payments also saw widespread adoption, with 91% of businesses generating significant revenue from online sales and 84% relying on platforms like MoMo and ZaloPay for transactions. These digital initiatives contributed to increased profitability, with 88% of businesses reporting financial gains, the highest among the 11 surveyed markets.
However, Vietnam’s rapid tech adoption has also heightened cybersecurity risks. The country ranked second in cyberattack-related losses, with 60% of small businesses reporting financial or operational damage—well above the survey average of 40%. In response, 62% reviewed their cybersecurity measures last year, yet 68% still anticipate attacks in 2025. Despite these challenges, optimism remains strong, with 92% of Vietnamese small firms expecting growth in 2025, the highest among the surveyed economies. Additionally, their international revenue is projected to nearly double from 15% in 2024 to 28% in 2025, underscoring Vietnam’s growing global competitiveness. CPA Australia’s CEO, Chris Freeland, emphasized that proactive cybersecurity measures are crucial to sustaining this momentum and ensuring long-term success.
Editor’s Note: Vietnam leads the Asia-Pacific region in AI adoption, with 44% of small businesses prioritizing AI investment and 47% using AI tools for decision-making, according to CPA Australia’s 2024-25 Small Business Survey. Despite cybersecurity risks, with 60% of small businesses reporting damage from cyberattacks, 92% remain optimistic about growth in 2025, driven by increased digital adoption and expanding international revenue.
Vietnam to Open New Semiconductor Plant Near VNU-HCM in 2025
CT Group has announced plans to open a semiconductor plant near Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City (VNU-HCM) in 2025, marking a significant step in the country’s semiconductor industry. The announcement, made at a seminar on semiconductor advanced packaging last Friday, highlighted Vietnam’s potential to integrate into the global chip supply chain. CT Group chairman Tran Kim Chung revealed that the company is developing three semiconductor plants specializing in assembly, testing, and packaging, with the first facility set to support both production and research, offering hands-on opportunities for students and instructors. A second plant is planned for Ho Chi Minh City by 2026, with another in northern Vietnam by 2027.
VNU-HCM director Assoc. Prof. Vu Hai Quan emphasized the critical role of outsourced semiconductor assembly and testing in the global supply chain and underscored the need for structured training and international collaboration. Ho Chi Minh City vice-chairman Vo Van Hoan reiterated the city’s commitment to becoming a regional semiconductor hub through investment attraction and workforce development. The event also saw a partnership agreement signed between VNU-HCM, CT Group, and Taiwan’s Minghsin University of Science and Technology to advance research and talent cultivation in the sector.
Editor’s Note: CT Group announced plans to open a semiconductor plant near Vietnam National University-Ho Chi Minh City (VNU-HCM) in 2025, marking a key step in the country’s semiconductor industry. The plant will focus on assembly, testing, and packaging, with plans for additional facilities in Ho Chi Minh City and northern Vietnam by 2027. The initiative includes a partnership with VNU-HCM and Taiwan’s Minghsin University to advance research and talent development in the sector.
Thai Businesses Must Embrace AI or Risk extinction, Experts Warn
Thai businesses must shift from reliance on cheap labor to AI-driven efficiency or risk being left behind in the global economy, experts stressed at the “AI Revolution 2025: A New Paradigm of New World Economy” seminar in Bangkok. Looloo Technology co-founder Parith Rangsimanond compared AI to past industrial revolutions, warning that businesses failing to integrate AI will struggle to survive. He cited global firms like Schneider Electric and Fujitsu, which have leveraged AI to cut costs by 50% and boost productivity by up to 50%. Despite AI’s transformative potential, Thailand’s adoption rate remains low, with Parith urging businesses to move beyond discussion and actively implement AI solutions to remain competitive.
Siam AI Corporation CEO Ratanaphon Wongnapachant called for Thailand to become an AI creator rather than just a consumer, advocating for the development of a Thai Large Language Model (ThaiLLM) to safeguard national data and cultural identity. He outlined key pillars for AI sovereignty, including AI ecosystems, infrastructure, and workforce readiness. Reflecting on global AI advancements from the GTC 2025 conference in San Jose, he highlighted the rapid progress toward artificial general intelligence (AGI) and the emergence of vision-language-action (VLA) models. Both speakers underscored that AI is no longer optional but a strategic necessity for Thai businesses to survive and thrive in the evolving digital economy.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40047985
Editor’s Note: Experts at the “AI Revolution 2025” seminar in Bangkok warned Thai businesses that failing to adopt AI-driven efficiency could lead to their extinction, citing global companies that have boosted productivity and cut costs using AI. They emphasized the need for Thailand to develop its own AI ecosystem and workforce, with a focus on creating a Thai Large Language Model to protect national data and culture.
Tech Moguls Could Replace Elected Leaders as AI Reshapes Workforce, Expert Warns
At the AI Revolution 2025 seminar, Bitkub CEO Jirayut Srupsrisopa warned that AI could render 39% of global workforce skills obsolete within five years, significantly disrupting industries like healthcare, finance, and education. Speaking on the “AI-Powered Workforce of the Future” panel, he highlighted insights from the World Economic Forum, predicting a shift from Large Language Models to advanced visual model-based AI. He emphasized that AI will soon surpass human capabilities in various fields, fundamentally altering employment and governance.
Jirayut also cautioned that AI’s rapid development may outpace government regulation, leading to increased control by private tech companies. He suggested that 2025 might mark the last year of human-elected presidents, as those who control AI will hold unprecedented influence. Echoing similar concerns, Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman and Bill Gates have warned of AI’s destabilizing impact on jobs, with Gates predicting that AI advancements will soon make human expertise redundant in many areas.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40047969
Editor’s Note: At the AI Revolution 2025 seminar, Bitkub CEO Jirayut Srupsrisopa warned that AI could render 39% of global workforce skills obsolete within five years, disrupting sectors like healthcare, finance, and education. He also cautioned that AI’s rapid development might outpace government regulation, giving tech companies unprecedented influence, potentially replacing elected leaders. Echoing similar concerns, Microsoft AI CEO Mustafa Suleyman and Bill Gates warned that AI could soon make human expertise redundant in many fields.
AI Cyber Threats Could Reach ‘Nuclear Bomb’ Levels, Experts Warn at Bangkok Seminar
The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence is fueling a new wave of cyber threats, with AI-driven attacks posing catastrophic risks to businesses and society, experts warned at the “AI Revolution 2025: A New Paradigm of New World Economy” seminar in Bangkok. Tanajak Watanakij, CTO of Thai cybersecurity start-up Cynclair, highlighted five major AI threats, including autonomous hacking, AI-generated malware, and deepfake-powered phishing scams. He warned that AI could also be weaponized for social manipulation, allowing bad actors to control public opinion and spread disinformation at an unprecedented scale.
Tanajak compared the potential danger of AI-driven cyberattacks to a “nuclear bomb,” urging businesses and governments to take immediate action. He stressed the need for stronger cybersecurity protocols, corporate investment in AI security, and public awareness campaigns to combat these evolving threats. Pointing to Finland’s proactive approach to media literacy education, he called for similar efforts in Thailand to equip citizens—especially children—with the skills to navigate an AI-driven digital landscape safely.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40047976
Editor’s Note: At the “AI Revolution 2025” seminar, experts warned that AI-driven cyber threats, such as autonomous hacking and deepfake-powered phishing, could pose catastrophic risks to businesses and society. Tanajak Watanakij, CTO of Cynclair, compared the potential dangers to a “nuclear bomb” and called for stronger cybersecurity measures, AI security investment, and public awareness to combat these evolving threats.
Agentic AI to Reshape Global Workforce by 2028, IBM Executive Predicts
The rise of Agentic AI—capable of autonomous planning, decision-making, and task execution—will revolutionize the workforce by 2028, according to IBM Thailand’s country general manager, Anothai Wettayakorn. Speaking at the “AI Revolution 2025: A New Paradigm of New World Economy” seminar, he highlighted that AI Agents, powered by Large Language Models, are already being explored by 99% of developers for enterprise applications. Gartner predicts that by 2028, one-third of organizations will integrate Agentic AI into their operations, enabling automation, enhanced decision-making, and streamlined workflows.
Despite its potential, Anothai emphasized the need for rigorous AI governance to mitigate risks associated with autonomy. He warned that “Autonomy Without Accountability is Chaos,” stressing the importance of transparency, auditability, and ethical AI development. While AI advancements in reasoning, efficiency, and integration continue, he maintained that human judgment remains critical, particularly in complex and sensitive roles. IBM advocates for open-source collaboration to ensure responsible AI scaling, reinforcing that the future of AI-driven productivity hinges on robust governance frameworks.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40047956
Editor’s Note: Anothai Wettayakorn, IBM Thailand’s country general manager, predicted that Agentic AI, capable of autonomous planning and decision-making, will reshape the global workforce by 2028, with one-third of organizations expected to integrate it into their operations. While acknowledging its potential for automation and enhanced decision-making, he emphasized the need for rigorous AI governance to prevent risks, stressing that “Autonomy Without Accountability is Chaos.” IBM advocates for open-source collaboration and robust governance frameworks to ensure responsible AI development, while maintaining that human judgment remains essential in complex roles.
Japanese Carmakers Struggle as EV Shift Reshapes Thailand’s Automotive Exports
Thailand’s once-dominant internal combustion engine (ICE) vehicle export sector is facing mounting challenges as global demand shifts towards electric vehicles (EVs). Data from the Ministry of Commerce and the Customs Department shows a decline in export rankings for major Japanese automakers, with Toyota Motor Thailand falling to second place in 2024, overtaken by electronics giant Western Digital Storage Technologies. Experts attribute this decline to increasing global demand for EVs, stringent emission regulations, and growing competition from Chinese EV manufacturers, which are aggressively expanding their presence in Thailand and its key export markets.
Industry leaders, including Toyota and the Federation of Thai Industries (FTI), are calling for government support to stimulate domestic sales and help traditional automakers transition. Toyota Motor Thailand has revised its export targets for 2025 and is focusing on cost-cutting measures and hybrid EV investments. Meanwhile, the FTI has maintained its production target of 1.5 million units for 2025 but warns that ongoing export declines and geopolitical uncertainties could further impact the industry. The Thai government is exploring stimulus measures, including SME loan guarantees, to bolster local vehicle sales amid these shifting market dynamics.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/automobile/40047891
Editor’s Note: Thailand’s traditional internal combustion engine vehicle export sector is struggling as global demand shifts toward electric vehicles, with Toyota Motor Thailand falling to second place in exports. Industry leaders are calling for government support to help automakers transition, while the Thai government is exploring measures to stimulate local vehicle sales amid the challenges posed by stricter emission regulations and rising competition from Chinese EV manufacturers.
Airports of Thailand to Implement AI for Faster Check-Ins and Enhanced Security
Airports of Thailand (AOT) is set to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, including automated check-in kiosks and biometric verification systems, to streamline passenger services and enhance security. Speaking at the “AI Revolution 2025” seminar, Worawut Saentaweesuk from AOT’s Digital Solutions Development Department emphasized that AI-powered identity verification will reduce wait times, allowing passengers to move through check-in and immigration more efficiently. The system will collect and use passenger data across multiple checkpoints, eliminating redundancies and improving the overall airport experience.
In addition to AI-driven efficiency, AOT is expanding airport infrastructure at key hubs like Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang to accommodate rising air traffic. These developments, combined with digital modernization, are part of AOT’s strategy to position Thailand as a leading aviation hub. Worawut highlighted that while AI enhances operational speed and convenience, maintaining security remains a top priority. By fostering innovation among its workforce, AOT aims to ensure a smooth transition to AI-powered airport management while improving passenger experience and boosting airport revenue.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/tech/40047942
Editor’s Note: Airports of Thailand (AOT) will integrate AI solutions like automated check-in kiosks and biometric verification systems to streamline passenger services and enhance security. AI-powered identity verification will reduce wait times and improve efficiency at checkpoints, while AOT is also expanding airport infrastructure to handle rising air traffic. These innovations aim to position Thailand as a leading aviation hub, improving passenger experience and boosting airport revenue while maintaining security.
NETA AUTO Denies R&D Team Dismissal, Reaffirms Commitment to Thai Market
Chinese electric vehicle (EV) manufacturer NETA AUTO has strongly denied rumors that it has scrapped its research and development team, insisting that Thailand remains a key market. In a statement issued Wednesday, the company emphasized that it is optimizing its organizational structure to enhance efficiency and reduce costs, while also warning that it will take legal action against those spreading false information that could damage its reputation. NETA reaffirmed its commitment to sustainable development in Thailand, promising to continue offering high-quality EVs and cutting-edge technology to local consumers.
Since launching its first model, the NETA V, in Thailand in 2021, the company has benefited from the government’s “EV 3.0” incentive program, which provides tax exemptions for imported EVs in exchange for local production commitments. As part of this initiative, NETA AUTO manufactures its vehicles at the Bangchan General Assembly plant in Bangkok. The automaker reiterated its mission of “Tech For All,” pledging to develop innovative yet affordable EV solutions for Thai consumers while maintaining a strong presence in the country’s growing EV market.
https://www.nationthailand.com/business/automobile/40047632
Editor’s Note: NETA AUTO has denied rumors of scrapping its R&D team and reaffirmed its commitment to the Thai market, emphasizing its focus on optimizing efficiency and continuing local production. The company pledged to offer high-quality EVs and technology to Thai consumers while maintaining a strong presence, supported by the government’s “EV 3.0” incentive program.
Tesla Tops EV Satisfaction Survey in Thailand, Leads in Technology and Driving Enjoyment
A recent survey by NielsenIQ Thailand has crowned Tesla as the top brand in Thailand’s electric vehicle (EV) market, earning the highest satisfaction score of 890 and a Net Promoter Score (NPS) of 81. The Electric Vehicle Ownership Satisfaction (EVOSS) study, which surveyed 1,060 EV owners, evaluated key factors such as driving experience, ownership costs, charging convenience, and after-sales service. Tesla outperformed competitors in critical areas, scoring 905 points in safety and technology, 899 in driving enjoyment, 894 in quality and reliability, and 883 in driving range, solidifying its dominance in Thailand’s EV sector.
The overall satisfaction score for EV ownership in Thailand stood at 880 points, with home charging convenience receiving the highest rating at 895. However, ownership costs—including electricity, maintenance, and vehicle prices—received the lowest score of 863. The study also found that most EV owners purchase their vehicles as an addition rather than a replacement, with design, driving performance, and reliability being top decision factors. Manenatta Jirasevijinda, Senior Director at NielsenIQ, emphasized that manufacturers must go beyond advertising and provide accurate data on driving range and performance to build consumer confidence and enhance brand reputation in the competitive EV market.
https://www.nationthailand.com/blogs/business/automobile/40047638
Editor’s Note: Tesla ranked first in Thailand’s electric vehicle (EV) market, topping the NielsenIQ Thailand survey with the highest satisfaction score of 890 and an NPS of 81. The survey highlighted Tesla’s leadership in technology, driving enjoyment, safety, and reliability, with the brand outperforming competitors in key areas. Despite high satisfaction with convenience and technology, ownership costs were the lowest-rated factor, and manufacturers were urged to provide accurate data to build consumer confidence.