Weekly News Updates: Mar. 15 – Mar. 28

ACCA Highlights Role of Finance in Sustainable Development at Conference; Vietnam’s IC Design Industry Sees Rising Demand Amid Talent Shortage; Vietnam Leads Asia-Pacific in AI Adoption Among Small Businesses, Survey Finds; Vietnam to Open New Semiconductor Plant Near VNU-HCM in 2025; Thai Businesses Must Embrace AI or Risk extinction, Experts Warn; Tech Moguls Could Replace Elected Leaders as AI Reshapes Workforce, Expert Warns; AI Cyber Threats Could Reach 'Nuclear Bomb' Levels, Experts Warn at Bangkok Seminar; Agentic AI to Reshape Global Workforce by 2028, IBM Executive Predicts; Japanese Carmakers Struggle as EV Shift Reshapes Thailand’s Automotive Exports; Airports of Thailand to Implement AI for Faster Check-Ins and Enhanced Security; NETA AUTO Denies R&D Team Dismissal, Reaffirms Commitment to Thai Market; Tesla Tops EV Satisfaction Survey in Thailand, Leads in Technology and Driving Enjoyment

ACCA Highlights Role of Finance in Sustainable Development at Conference

ACCA 在會議中強調財務在永續發展中的關鍵角色

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.

https://vir.com.vn/technological-impacts-on-sustainability-practices-laid-bare-for-businesses-124950.html

小編點評:在最近的一場會議中,ACCA 強調了財務專業人士在推動永續發展中的角色,會議內容涵蓋碳排放管理、以科技驅動的成本優化以及 ESG 政策的討論。
該活動同時也推出了一項永續發展專業文憑課程,旨在強化永續報告與管理方面的專業能力,並獲得越南註冊會計師協會(VACPA)、越南普華永道(PwC Vietnam)以及胡志明市經濟大學的支持。

Vietnam’s IC Design Industry Sees Rising Demand Amid Talent Shortage

越南IC設計產業人才短缺下需求持續攀升

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.

https://tuoitrenews.vn/news/business/20250324/vietnam-s-semiconductor-industry-sees-golden-opportunity-amid-surging-demand-for-chip-design-engineers/85465.html

小編點評:在胡志明市舉辦的一場IC設計競賽中,業界領袖指出越南對半導體工程師的需求日益增加,且預計此就業需求將持續強勁至2026年。Faraday Technology Vietnam 的執行長許祥勇(Koh Siang Yong Kevin)強調,汽車與人工智慧領域的半導體專案數量正在快速成長;同時,聯發科技(MediaTek)在工程職缺的招募上則面臨困難。
包括黎國強副教授(Assoc. Prof. Le Quoc Cuong)在內的專家呼籲,應加大對高階培訓課程的投資,以培養具備專業技能的工程師,為越南在AI、物聯網(IoT)及數位轉型領域的未來發展做好準備。

Vietnam Leads Asia-Pacific in AI Adoption Among Small Businesses, Survey Finds

調查發現:越南小型企業在 AI 採用方面領先亞太地區

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.

https://tuoitrenews.vn/news/business/20250323/vietnams-small-businesses-lead-asiapacific-in-ai-investment-survey/85446.html

小編點評:根據澳洲註冊會計師協會 2024-25 年小型企業調查,越南在人工智慧應用方面處於亞太地區領先地位,44% 的小型企業優先考慮人工智慧投資,47% 的小型企業使用人工智慧工具進行決策。儘管存在網路安全風險,60% 的小型企業報告遭受網路攻擊造成的損失,但 92% 的小型企業仍對 2025 年的成長持樂觀態度,這得益於數位化應用的增加和國際收入的擴大。

Vietnam to Open New Semiconductor Plant Near VNU-HCM in 2025

越南將於2025年在越南國家大學胡志明市校區附近設立新半導體工廠

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.

https://tuoitrenews.vn/news/business/20250318/vietnam-set-to-open-semiconductor-plant-in-ho-chi-minh-city-this-year/85312.html

小編點評:CT 集團宣布計劃於 2025 年在越南國家大學胡志明市校區(VNU-HCM)附近興建一座半導體工廠,象徵著越南半導體產業邁出重要一步。該工廠將專注於組裝、測試與封裝,並計畫於 2027 年前在胡志明市與越北地區增設更多設施。
此項計畫也包括與越南國家大學胡志明市校區及台灣明新科技大學的合作,以促進該產業的研究發展與人才培育。

Thai Businesses Must Embrace AI or Risk extinction, Experts Warn

專家警告:泰國企業若不擁抱 AI 恐面臨淘汰風險

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

小編點評:在曼谷舉行的「AI 革命 2025」研討會上,專家警告泰國企業,若未善用 AI 提升效率,恐將面臨被淘汰的風險。他們指出,全球已有企業透過 AI 成功提升生產力並降低成本。
專家們強調,泰國必須建立本國的 AI 生態系與人才體系,並著重開發「泰國大型語言模型(Large Language Model)」,以保護國家數據與文化。

Tech Moguls Could Replace Elected Leaders as AI Reshapes Workforce, Expert Warns

專家警告:隨著 AI 重塑勞動力,科技巨頭恐取代民選領袖

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

小編點評:在「AI 革命 2025」研討會上,Bitkub 執行長 Jirayut Srupsrisopa 警告,AI 可能在五年內使全球 39% 的勞動力技能變得過時,對醫療、金融與教育等產業帶來顛覆性影響。他也指出,AI 的迅速發展可能會超越政府監管的速度,使科技公司擁有前所未有的影響力,甚至可能取代民選領導人。
微軟 AI 執行長 Mustafa Suleyman 與比爾·蓋茲也發出類似警告,認為 AI 很快將在許多領域取代人類專業知識。

AI Cyber Threats Could Reach ‘Nuclear Bomb’ Levels, Experts Warn at Bangkok Seminar

專家在曼谷研討會警告:AI 網路威脅恐達「核彈級」破壞力

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

小編點評:在「AI 革命 2025」研討會上,專家警告 AI 驅動的網路威脅(如自動化駭客攻擊與深偽技術釣魚)可能對企業與社會構成災難性風險。Cynclair 技術長 Tanajak Watanakij 將其潛在危害比喻為「核彈」,並呼籲加強資安防護、投入 AI 安全相關投資,以及提升大眾對這些新型威脅的認知。

Agentic AI to Reshape Global Workforce by 2028, IBM Executive Predicts

IBM高層預測:Agentic AI 將於2028年前重塑全球勞動力市場

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

小編點評:IBM 泰國區總經理 Anothai Wettayakorn 預測,具備自主規劃與決策能力的「Agentic AI」將於 2028 年前重塑全球勞動市場,預計將有三分之一的組織導入該技術。他在肯定其在自動化與決策輔助方面潛力的同時,也強調應建立嚴謹的 AI 治理機制以防範風險,並指出「沒有責任的自主就是混亂」。
IBM 倡導開源合作與健全治理架構,以確保 AI 的負責任發展,同時強調在人類仍不可或缺的複雜職務中,判斷力仍需依賴人類本身。

Japanese Carmakers Struggle as EV Shift Reshapes Thailand’s Automotive Exports

隨著電動車轉型重塑泰國汽車出口,日本車廠面臨嚴峻挑戰

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

小編點評:隨著全球市場需求轉向電動車,泰國傳統內燃機汽車出口產業正面臨困境,Toyota Motor Thailand 的出口排名也跌至第二。業界領袖呼籲政府提供支持,協助汽車製造商完成轉型;同時,泰國政府正研擬措施以刺激國內車市銷售,以應對日益嚴格的排放法規及中國電動車製造商帶來的競爭壓力。

Airports of Thailand to Implement AI for Faster Check-Ins and Enhanced Security

泰國機場公司將導入 AI 技術,加速報到流程並強化安檢安全

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

小編點評:泰國機場公司(AOT)將導入 AI 解決方案,包括自助報到機與生物識別驗證系統,以簡化旅客服務流程並提升安全性。AI 驅動的身分驗證技術將縮短等候時間,提升安檢效率。同時,AOT 也在擴建機場基礎設施,以應對日益增長的航空交通量。
這些創新措施旨在提升旅客體驗、增加機場營收,同時鞏固泰國作為亞洲領先航空樞紐的地位。

NETA AUTO Denies R&D Team Dismissal, Reaffirms Commitment to Thai Market

NETA AUTO 否認裁撤研發團隊,重申對泰國市場的承諾

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

小編點評:NETA AUTO 否認解散研發團隊的傳聞,並重申對泰國市場的承諾,強調其持續優化效率與當地生產的決心。該公司承諾將為泰國消費者提供高品質的電動車與技術,同時在政府「EV 3.0」獎勵計畫的支持下,維持穩固的市場存在。

Tesla Tops EV Satisfaction Survey in Thailand, Leads in Technology and Driving Enjoyment

特斯拉在泰國電動車滿意度調查中名列第一,科技與駕駛樂趣領先全場

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

小編點評:根據 NielsenIQ Thailand 的調查,特斯拉在泰國電動車(EV)市場中排名第一,獲得最高滿意度分數 890 分與淨推薦值(NPS)81 分。調查指出,特斯拉在科技領先、駕駛樂趣、安全性與可靠性等關鍵領域皆優於其他品牌。
儘管消費者對便利性與科技表現高度滿意,擁車成本仍為評分最低的項目。調查也呼籲車廠應提供準確數據,以強化消費者信心。