Vietnam and APEC will grow and prosper in this era of progress.

By implementing comprehensive digital transformation, fostering innovation, and developing a skilled workforce, Vietnam can leverage its potential and contribute to the growth and prosperity of the Asia- Pacific region.

Linda Tan, President of the Semiconductor Association of Southeast Asia (SEMI SEA). (Photo: Provided by the interviewee)

Linda Tan, President of the Semiconductor Association of Southeast Asia (SEMI SEA), shared with the World and Vietnam Newspaper about what Vietnam can contribute to the digital development process and promote innovation in the Asia- Pacific region.

How do you assess Vietnam's current opportunities for digital development and innovation, particularly in the semiconductor industry? What are Vietnam's strengths and challenges in this field?

Vietnam's semiconductor industry is well-positioned for growth, thanks to its abundant and young workforce, graduates from renowned technology universities such as Hanoi University of Science and Technology and the University of Technology (part of Vietnam National University, Hanoi). The government's decision to establish the National Innovation Center (NIC) also helps promote research and development, nurture startups, and create a strategic advantage for key Asian markets.

However, challenges remain such as the skills gap (the disparity between employees' current abilities and the skills required by organizations and businesses to perform the job), intellectual property protection, and regional competition.

Nevertheless, I believe that Vietnam's proactive approach and dynamic workforce have opened up a bright future for the country's semiconductor industry.

According to her, how does the innovation ecosystem, particularly in the semiconductor industry, impact Vietnam's economic development?

The innovation ecosystem in Vietnam's semiconductor industry plays a crucial role in the country's economic development. This ecosystem will promote research and development of advanced technologies, thereby not only enhancing technological capabilities but also attracting foreign investment and fostering local startups.

This ecosystem also encourages collaboration between universities, research institutions, and private businesses, facilitating knowledge transfer and skills development.

Furthermore, a thriving semiconductor sector can create more jobs, especially in high-skilled fields, contributing to overall economic growth. As global demand for semiconductors continues to rise, Vietnam has the potential to position itself as a key player in the supply chain, integrating more deeply into the global market.

Ultimately, in my opinion, a robust innovation ecosystem in the semiconductor industry will drive sustainable economic growth, enhance competitiveness, and improve the living standards of the Vietnamese people.

Trainees participating in the Technology Talent Development Program organized by Samsung and NIC. (Photo: Dan Thanh)

In the coming period, what should the Vietnamese business community, especially in the semiconductor sector, do to promote the innovation ecosystem and thereby contribute to Vietnam's economic development in the new era – the era of upward mobility?

To effectively promote the innovation ecosystem and contribute to Vietnam's economic development in the new era, I believe Vietnam needs to focus on the following key strategies:

Firstly, investment in research and development (R&D) should be targeted. Vietnam should allocate resources to R&D in specialized areas such as packaging and advanced testing. This is a growing field with high demand. At the same time, focus should be placed on developing semiconductor solutions for Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) applications by collaborating with universities and research institutions to promote breakthrough solutions and develop the industry.

Secondly, foster collaboration. The country needs to encourage collaboration among private, academic, and public sector organizations. This can be modeled after success stories from other countries, thereby creating a more integrated innovation ecosystem.

Third, enhance skills development. The semiconductor industry requires a highly skilled workforce. Local businesses should invest in training and internship programs to equip employees with the latest skills and knowledge.

In addition, collaborating with educational institutions to align with and bridge the gap with industry needs will ensure a stable talent pool.

Furthermore, providing scholarships or exchange programs to train Vietnamese students in top semiconductor programs abroad, such as the SEMI Regional Students Bootcamp, will give students more opportunities to interact with and experience multicultural learning.

Fourth, strengthen intellectual property protection. Strong advocacy for intellectual property rights will encourage innovation by ensuring that businesses can protect their inventions and investments. This will create a safer environment for businesses to develop and commercialize new technological products.

Fifth, participate in global networks. Actively participating in international forums and networks using the SEMI global platform can bring valuable connections and collaboration opportunities. This exposure can help Vietnamese companies keep up with global trends and technologies in the semiconductor industry.

By focusing on implementing the aforementioned strategies, I believe Vietnam can significantly strengthen its innovation ecosystem in the semiconductor sector, contributing to the country's economic development and positioning itself as a competitive nation in the global market.

Looking further ahead, with the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum in mind, how do you assess the achievements in digital development and innovation of these economies, especially in the semiconductor industry? How can Vietnam learn from and contribute to the Asia-Pacific region?

APEC provides a valuable platform for member economies to share best practices in digital development and innovation. Vietnam can learn from the achievements of other APEC members, particularly in the semiconductor industry, to accelerate its own progress and become a more significant player in the global technology landscape.

By implementing comprehensive digital transformation, fostering innovation, and developing a skilled workforce, Vietnam can leverage its potential and contribute to the growth and prosperity of the Asia-Pacific region.

Thank you, ma'am!

Source: https://baoquocte.vn/viet-nam-cung-apec-tang-truong-and-thinh-vuong-trong-ky-nguyen-vuon-minh-293574.html