AI and invisible fears are holding back small Vietnamese businesses

The era of artificial intelligence (AI) has truly exploded, reshaping the global competitive map and posing a vital proposition for businesses: change or die. While large corporations are investing heavily, small and medium enterprises (SMEs) - the "backbone" of the Vietnamese economy - are still struggling at a crossroads.

At the "HCMC Business Summit 2025" event recently held in Ho Chi Minh City, a timely question was raised: What prevents Vietnamese SMEs from boldly entering the digital transformation?

Dr. Dang Pham Thien Duy (RMIT University Vietnam) believes that the biggest barrier for SMEs is not money or technology, but hesitation and wrong prejudice. Many businesses are caught in the flashy trap of thinking about digital transformation with "blockbuster" technologies such as AI, blockchain or IoT, and thus think that this game is too far away and too costly.

AI and the invisible fear that is holding back small Vietnamese businesses - 1

Dr. Dang Pham Thien Duy, RMIT University Vietnam (Photo: RMIT).

In fact, digital transformation can start with small things: using management software to replace discrete Excel, automating timekeeping and payroll, or analyzing basic data to better understand customers. But even these steps are delayed by financial pressures. For SMEs, short-term priorities often overwhelm long-term benefits, turning digital transformation into “important but not urgent”.

An interesting paradox in business is that breakthroughs often do not come from giants. SMEs, thanks to their flexibility and leanness, can take advantage of this opportunity. If large corporations are bulky “aircraft carriers”, SMEs are “speed boats” that can easily navigate and explore new waters.

However, Vietnamese SMEs are strongly influenced by Asian culture: they tend to be controlling, risk-averse, and less proactive in seeking outside advice. The hesitation to entrust data to a new system, or the fear of “losing money and getting sick” when testing uncertain technology, slows them down.

Meanwhile, SMEs in developed countries, although still using simple tools, proactively learn, experiment and are surrounded by a supportive ecosystem. Vietnamese SMEs often act passively: "follow what competitors do", lacking the desire to be a pioneer.

According to Mr. Duy, for SMEs, digital transformation is first and foremost a revolution in thinking, not just a matter of machinery. When daring to overcome short-term pressure, investing in “important but not urgent” matters, and nurturing the spirit of learning, Vietnamese SMEs will not be left behind.

In the AI era, it is not just the tools that matter, but the conviction, vision and courage of leadership to pave the way for the future.

Source: https://dantri.com.vn/kinh-doanh/ai-va-noi-so-vo-hinh-dang-niu-chan-doanh-nghiep-nho-viet-nam-20250926151755661.htm