Vietnam’s Vision for Science, Technology, and Digital Transformation – Insights from Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW

Vietnam is positioning itself as a leader in science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation (STI&D). Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW, issued by the Politburo on December 22, 2024, sets a bold agenda to advance these areas as catalysts for socio-economic growth and modernization. Below is a comprehensive exploration of the resolution’s objectives, principles, and implementation strategies.

I. Strategic Context

Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW identifies STI&D as pivotal for transforming Vietnam into a developed, high-income nation by 2045. This initiative underscores the necessity of modernizing productive forces, enhancing national competitiveness, and fostering sustainable growth.

II. Urgency for Action

The resolution acknowledges previous achievements but emphasizes several critical challenges:

• Slow Progress: The development of science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation is advancing at a sluggish pace with minimal breakthroughs.
• Weak Capacity: The scale, potential, and development level of national science, technology, and innovation lag significantly behind developed countries.
• Limited Awareness: Awareness of digital transformation among various sectors, officials, and the general public remains inadequate and superficial.
• Technological Dependence: Significant breakthroughs in scientific research, application, and innovation are lacking, with no mastery of core and strategic technologies.
• Inadequate Legal Framework: Existing legal institutions, mechanisms, and policies fall short of addressing current requirements.
• Human Resource Shortages: The availability of high-quality human resources is insufficient to meet demand.
• Infrastructure Limitations: Infrastructure, particularly digital infrastructure, is underdeveloped and inconsistent.
• Cybersecurity Challenges: Issues related to cybersecurity, information safety, and data protection present significant obstacles.

The resolution underscores the urgency for bold, strategic, and revolutionary policies to create fresh momentum for the development of science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation (STI&D).

III. Guiding Principles

The resolution establishes five foundational principles to guide progress:

1. STI&D as a Breakthrough: Developing science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation is recognized as a crucial breakthrough and a fundamental driver to modernize productive forces, fueling national development in the new era.
2. Unified Efforts: The Party’s comprehensive leadership will be strengthened to harness the collective power of the political system, businesses, and the public. Citizens and enterprises serve as the core players, resources, and drivers; scientists are pivotal contributors; and the state provides strategic guidance and support.
3. Core Priorities: Institutional frameworks, human resources, infrastructure, data, and strategic technologies are identified as key focus areas. Among these, institutions are deemed a prerequisite requiring prioritization and consistent advancement.
4. Sustainable Development: Sustainable progress will be pursued with an emphasis on achieving technological self-reliance. National resources will be prioritized to support the development of science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation (STI&D).
5. Cybersecurity Assurance: Safeguarding national sovereignty in cyberspace is integral to the STI&D process. Ensuring cybersecurity, data security, and information safety for organizations and individuals remains a top priority.

IV. Ambitious Goals

The resolution outlines specific targets for 2030 and an ambitious vision for 2045, aligning with Vietnam’s strategy for science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation:

By 2030

• Regional Leadership: Establish Vietnam among the top three in Southeast Asia and within the top 50 globally in digital competitiveness and e-government development.
• Digital Economy Contribution: Ensure the digital economy contributes at least 30% of GDP.
• High Online Service Adoption: Achieve over 80% utilization of online public services by citizens and businesses.
• Enterprise Innovation: Drive over 40% of enterprises to participate in innovation activities.
• Strategic Technology Mastery: Progressively master critical and emerging technologies, including AI, IoT, big data, cloud computing, blockchain, semiconductors, quantum computing, nanotechnology, and 5G/6G communications.

By 2045

• Achieving High-Income Status: Utilize science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation (STI&D) to secure developed, high-income country status.
• Digital Economy Dominance: Ensure the digital economy constitutes at least 50% of GDP.
• Global Technology Hub: Position Vietnam as a leading regional and global hub for digital technology industries, attracting international talent and investment.
• Innovation Leadership: Rank among the top 30 countries in innovation and digital transformation, showcasing a robust ecosystem for technological advancement and creativity.
  

This strategy reflects Vietnam’s commitment to leveraging science, technology, and innovation as critical drivers for sustainable development and economic growth.

V. Priority Actions

The resolution outlines seven key tasks and solutions:

1. Raise awareness: Strengthen political commitment and drive societal support for STI&D.
2. Enhance legal frameworks: Accelerate legal reforms to eliminate obstacles hindering STI&D.
3. Invest in infrastructure: Launch targeted initiatives to build digital and data infrastructure.
4. Develop human capital: Prioritize education and talent recruitment for STI&D.
5. Digitize governance: Transition all political system operations to digital platforms, ensuring robust cybersecurity.
6. Encourage business participation: Provide incentives for businesses to adopt STI&D.
7. Enhance international cooperation: Strengthen partnerships with developed countries in technological advancements and global regulatory efforts.

VI. Implementation Mechanisms

The resolution calls for a robust governance structure:

• Central Steering Committee: Led by the General Secretary.
  
• National Advisory Council: Comprising local and international experts.
  
• Leadership Oversight: Key bodies such as Party organizations, government, and the National Assembly ensure resource allocation and institutionalization.
  
• Public Engagement: Social-political organizations will mobilize and oversee the implementation process.
  
• Communication Strategy: Managed by the Central Propaganda Department to ensure widespread awareness.

VII. Future Outlook

Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW marks a significant step in Vietnam’s journey toward technological and digital leadership. By leveraging strategic policies, fostering collaboration, and committing to sustainability, Vietnam is well-positioned to achieve its targets for 2030 and 2045. This ambitious vision ensures the nation’s emergence as a global innovator in science, technology, and digital transformation.

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