DIGITAL WAVES for SURVIVAL: Must change mindset to adapt, survive and then break through

(HTV) - In the context of the Vietnamese nation entering a new era - the era of national growth, digital transformation has been identified as a necessary "revolution" to bring our country to new opportunities.

In the context of the Fourth Industrial Revolution, digital transformation is no longer an option, but has become a matter of survival for all businesses, regardless of size or industry.

Over the years, Vietnam has made significant progress in its digital transformation process. Furthermore, the Party and State have implemented numerous policies and initiatives to promote the application and development of science and technology, foster innovation, and accelerate digital transformation through resolutions and decisions.

Continuing the discussion on the topic of digital transformation, the thematic workshop "Digital Wave for Survival" realistically assessed the current situation of Vietnamese businesses.

In this context, Vietnamese businesses have continuously promoted technological development, innovation, and proactively updated and enhanced their capabilities to effectively meet customer needs, thereby contributing to the national digital transformation process. This was also the main topic discussed by speakers at the thematic workshop "Digital Wave for Survival" of the series of thematic workshops within the framework of the Made by Vietnam Forum 2025.

As one of the key factors for survival in today's volatile economic environment, applying digital technology to communication will help brands reach the right audience and create deep, lasting connections with modern consumers.

Mr. Vo Thanh My, Chairman of the Southern Branch of the Digital Communication Association, believes that, alongside the main digital communication trends and practical application opportunities, many businesses, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), are still facing challenges due to a lack of systematic knowledge about communication, easily being swept along by short-term trends while failing to define a longer-term strategy.

Moderating the second thematic workshop within the framework of the Made by Vietnam Forum 2025, Mr. Vo Thanh My shared insightful perspectives from the viewpoint of a leader with many years of experience combining digital communication and digital transformation.

In the digital age, communication is no longer just a supporting tool, but has become a core component of a business's competitiveness. We need to recognize an irreversible reality: Digital transformation is no longer an option, but a "survival" condition for businesses to survive and thrive in an increasingly modernized world . In a business environment driven by data and technology, digital communication is the bridge that allows businesses not only to reach the right consumers, but also to build trust and long-term relationships.

Regarding the specific role of the government in creating the foundation, perfecting policies, and promoting the digital ecosystem for businesses, Ms. Vo Thi Trung Trinh - Director of the Ho Chi Minh City Digital Transformation Center - informed the entire conference that Ho Chi Minh City is focusing on three main pillars in its digital transformation strategy: digital government, digital economy, and digital society.

For the business community, Ho Chi Minh City is prioritizing the development of a synchronized digital infrastructure, promoting data openness, and connecting the digital ecosystem between departments and agencies to support businesses in effectively accessing information, policies, and technological tools.

In addition, the city is also promoting digital skills training programs for small and medium-sized enterprises, experimenting with policy sandbox models, and calling for public-private partnerships in building a shared digital platform.

However, one of the major current obstacles is the gap in awareness among business groups, especially small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). In addition, the shortage of digital human resources and the initial investment costs for technology remain a burden for many businesses. The city is striving to remove these barriers through flexible policies, more practical support, and the creation of a comprehensive digital transformation environment.

As the focal point for digital transformation in Ho Chi Minh City, the Center for Digital Transformation is tasked by the city's leadership with promoting the public disclosure and transparency of information through open data platforms, aiming to help businesses easily access and utilize them in their production and business activities.

Besides data dissemination, enhancing the application of information through workshops, training sessions, and the development of analytical tools is also emphasized to build a shared resource pool, acting as a catalyst for innovation and supporting businesses in their development in line with market demands.

For digital transformation to truly become a part of business life, technology platforms – especially those with widespread reach – will act as levers to drive change. Today, TikTok Shop is not just a sales tool, but also a powerful channel for connection, communication, and brand building, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises.

As a speaker representing the e-commerce and creative content sector at the "Digital Wave for Survival" seminar, Ms. Tran Thi Tan - Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR) Director of TikTok Shop Vietnam - helped the audience redefine the role of sales platforms as a bridge to help businesses develop comprehensive digital capabilities.

Specifically, TikTok Shop Vietnam has focused on supporting businesses through training programs, guiding them in creating effective short content, and teaching them how to use data analytics tools to understand consumers and optimize operations. In addition, Ms. Tan stated that the organization is also striving to create a favorable environment for businesses to access the market flexibly, cost-effectively, and easily adapt to digital consumer trends.

For these platforms to be truly effective, in addition to infrastructure and policies, businesses, especially SMEs, also need a suitable digital communication mindset and awareness. Digital transformation is not just about applying technology, but also about changing how businesses tell their story, connect with consumers, and position their value in the new environment.

As digital transformation truly becomes a lever for sustainable development, alongside major platforms, we also need to mention future infrastructure technologies – including blockchain. This is no longer a concept exclusive to the tech industry, but is increasingly evident in business strategies, transparent governance, and brand trust building.

As an expert and entrepreneur in the blockchain field, Mr. Nguyen The Vinh - Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Blockchain Association and founder of Ninety Eight - stated that blockchain has provided insights that help businesses enhance transparency and authenticity - from the supply chain and product origin to customer interactions. This is especially important in the context of consumers increasingly concerned about authenticity, accountability, and the core values ​​of a brand.

Furthermore, blockchain creates new interaction models, such as brand tokenization, helping to creatively engage loyal customers. In fact, blockchain is no longer just a technology, but is gradually becoming a strategic tool to help businesses enhance their reputation and build trust with consumers in the digital age. The future potential of blockchain lies not only in creating a competitive advantage, but also in helping businesses build trust and achieve sustainable growth in the digital environment.

The digital transformation journey is no longer a trend, but one of the many standards for businesses in the new era. From the "green wave" of sustainable development to the "digital wave"—the wave of technology—all are enveloping us, posing many new challenges but also giving businesses unprecedented opportunities for breakthroughs if they know how to leverage and seize them.

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Source: https://htv.com.vn/song-so-de-song-con-phai-thay-doi-tu-duy-de-thich-nghi-ton-tai-roi-but-pha-222250809211158554.htm