Vietnam’s Manufacturing depends on AI for productivity boost
30/09/2024
Vietnam's manufacturing sector is increasingly reliant on artificial intelligence (AI) and digital transformation to drive growth and competitiveness, as outlined in Zebra Technologies Corporation's 2024 Manufacturing Vision Study. The study highlights that 46% of manufacturers in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region expect AI to spur growth by 2024, rising to 68% by 2029. This rapid surge underscores the crucial role of AI in enhancing productivity and improving quality in manufacturing processes.Challenges in Adopting Digital TechnologiesManufacturers face big challenges when trying to adopt digital technologies. Globally, 30-40% of those surveyed say the main problems are high labor costs, a lack of skilled workers, and difficulties in combining information technology (IT) with operational technology (OT). In the Asia Pacific region, these challenges are even greater due to the sector's rapid expansion and the need for continual reskilling of the workforce.Vietnam’s Ambitious Manufacturing GoalsVietnam's government has set ambitious goals for its manufacturing sector, targeting a 30% contribution to GDP and an annual labor productivity growth rate of 7.5%. With the manufacturing sector expected to grow by more than 8.5% per year, adopting AI and other advanced technologies is critical. FDI has been pivotal, with the sector attracting $20 billion in 2023, accounting for over 60% of Vietnam’s total FDI. This influx has strengthened Vietnam's position as a manufacturing hub, particularly in electronics and textiles.Real-Time Data and AI IntegrationThe report emphasizes that real-time data visibility is key to driving digital transformation in manufacturing. By integrating AI-powered analytics, manufacturers can enhance data management, track performance, and address issues immediately. This allows for better decision-making, predictive maintenance, and quality control, leading to greater efficiency and reduced downtime.ConclusionIn conclusion, Vietnam's manufacturing sector stands at a crucial juncture, where embracing AI and digitalization will be essential for sustaining growth and competitiveness. With global and regional manufacturers increasingly prioritizing these technologies, Vietnam’s push towards a digitally-enabled manufacturing environment is expected to play a critical role in achieving the sector's ambitious growth targets.Source: Vietnam Economic News
View DetailVietnam's path to becoming a semiconductor industry leader
01/11/2023
With the current political and economic climate, Vietnam has a lot of chances to grow its semiconductor chip sector and become a player in the global value chain. Experts agree that the most pressing issue now is the need for a plan to train workers to meet business needs and the absence of regulations to entice investors and talent in preparation for a market that might reach $1 trillion by 2030. The contemporary computer owes its very existence to semiconductor microchips. Chips and microcircuit systems are essential to functioning a wide variety of consumer electronics, including vehicles, phones, computers, TVs, aircraft, robots, medical equipment, and other electrical items found in the home. The semiconductor industry's "big guys" have entered a new market: Vietnam With its improved reputation and political stability, Vietnam is now in a better position to entice leading semiconductor technology companies from around the world. A facility in Bac Ninh province will manufacture, assemble, and test semiconductor materials and equipment, and Amkor Technology Group (Korea) is investing quickly in it so that trial production may start by the end of October. Yen Phong II-C Industrial Park is home to a state-of-the-art semiconductor factory project that will set a new record for Amkor's global footprint at an estimated 1.6 billion USD. Similarly, in 2023, Samsung conducted the first round of the GSAT (Global Samsung Aptitude Test) hiring test to assist with the R&D Center (Hanoi) operations and the factory's ambitions to manufacture transistor grids. Samsung Electro-Mechanics Vietnam (SEMV) is based out of Thai Nguyen. More than $2.6 billion is the capital of the project in issue. At the same time, Vietnamese operational firms are constantly broadening the reach and placement of their projects. For example, the Japanese conglomerate Meiko Group has recently contacted the provincial government of Hoa Binh with an offer to spend over $200 million USD in a factory on the left bank of Song Da Industrial Park that would manufacture a variety of electronic circuits. This consortium of electrical circuit board producers and assemblers made their initial investment in 2006 with a total of over 500 million USD. Currently, they have three factories that make and put together circuit boards for electrical devices. On the other hand, Intel spent more than a billion dollars in Vietnam, and their factory there is still quite important to the company's output. Importantly, reliable sources have revealed that this American semiconductor firm is considering seeking more capital in order to broaden the scope of its project at the SHTP in Ho Chi Minh City. Together, the investments of Qualcomm, Texas Instruments, NXP Semiconductors, SK Hynix, and Hayward Quartz Technology—among other multinational companies—in the Vietnamese semiconductor business create an ecosystem of more specialized chips. Along with the influx of foreign direct investment (FDI), Vietnam is seeing an increase in high-quality, value-added investment projects. Because of its ability to host chip testing, design engineer training, and the construction of facilities for the production of semiconductor materials and components, Vietnam is a popular destination for investors seeking to launch a semiconductor industry. The design stage is highly appreciated and considered vital in the semiconductor business; Vietnam is attracting large-scale investment in chip design. What makes Vietnam so appealing? The global chip, component, and semiconductor manufacturing sectors have been plagued by supply chain difficulties following the COVID-19 epidemic. Vietnam is one of several nations benefiting from the reorganization of production chains brought about by this climate; many of the world's top chip firms have set up shop in Vietnam. Infineon Technologies Asia-Pacific President and CEO Mr. CS Chua claims that Vietnam's young population and large population (almost 100 million) make the country a promising market, rising to prominence as a top destination for technical talent recruitment by international corporations. There are a number of benefits to entering the semiconductor industry in this economy of almost 100 million people, such as a large and young population and an increasing supply of skilled individuals in the electronics industry. Thanks to its low labor costs and strategic position in Southeast Asia, Vietnam provides a climate that is favorable to business. The Vietnamese government is enticing international investment and commerce while it adjusts the legal framework to match global standards. On the other hand, Vietnam is home to a vibrant group of local entrepreneurs who are both ambitious about the country's future and open to new ideas and experiences. Steps to join the multibillion-dollar industry Growing demand for semiconductor chip goods in many different sectors is driving rapid market expansion. These sectors include healthcare, AI, automobile production, electronics, and home appliances. The American Semiconductor Industry Association predicts that by 2030, the worldwide market for semiconductor chips will have grown to 1,000 billion USD. The projected sales amount is now approximately 600 billion USD. Thus, by entering the international semiconductor industry, Vietnam will have access to markets that might be worth billions of dollars. Because of the semiconductor industry's growing importance to the world economy, most developed countries have instituted policies to boost the industry while strengthening their links to other countries in an effort to become the industry leaders. Vietnam has risen to the ninth-highest position in the world for electronics exports. Due to the country's present strengths, big tech corporations plan to boost semiconductor component production in Vietnam, which could make it the world's leading chip design and manufacturing hub. According to experts, Vietnam's semiconductor industry has a great deal of untapped potential for growth and international participation. In order to achieve this goal, Vietnam must overcome many obstacles, such as creating a favorable environment for businesses, allocating funds for research and development, collaborating with international partners, and establishing a domestic supply chain. Hardware by TMA Creating the Path for Progress in the Semiconductor Sector When it comes to providing cutting-edge hardware integration solutions, TMA Hardware Lab is now at the forefront. This forward-thinking lab has developed, integrated, and tested hundreds of devices in the Internet of Things (IoT), telecommunications, healthcare, robotics, manufacturing, and smart city applications. Mastery of Technical Areas TMA Hardware Lab's backbone consists of over 200 embedded engineers with a combined depth of expertise. This expert team's dedication to accuracy and quality is evident in the flawless integration of more than 100 devices. Full Range of Services Design, testing, integration, and maintenance are just a few of the many services offered by TMA Hardware Lab. The team has a deep understanding of the significance of maintaining optimal hardware performance and provides customized solutions to address their client's unique requirements. The team's deep understanding of current technology allows them to provide comprehensive project management and top-tier hardware services. Various Technology The Hardware Lab's expertise includes a number of technologies, including chipsets from companies like ESP, Raspberry, NXP, STM, and PIC. They are experts in hardware design, using programs like Altium, Kicad, and OrCA. They are also experts in microcontroller units like ESP32, NXP32, STM32, and PIC32. They are experts in power electronics (including Boost, Flyback, and BLE topologies) and the Internet of Things (IoT), which includes LoRaWAN, WiFi-6, and Wi-Fi HaLow. Maximizing Efficiency through the Use of Hardware Their method relies heavily on hardware integration, which gives companies a bird' s-eye view of the whole production cycle. This method, which improves workflow efficiency and management, demonstrates TMA Hardware Lab's dedication to providing state-of-the-art solutions. The Hardware Lab at TMA Solutions is still a major player in this age of rapid technological development. It helps to pave the way for new innovations and determines the direction the semiconductor industry will take. When it comes to hardware innovation, no one does it better than TMA Hardware Lab, thanks to its outstanding team and relentless pursuit of perfection.
View Detail2023: A Boom in Tech Giants' Investments in Vietnam
15/11/2023
In 2023, Vietnam has emerged as a focal point for significant investments from global technology giants. This surge in interest is primarily driven by the country’s growing prominence in the semiconductor industry, which is vital for numerous high-tech applications worldwide. This article explores the factors contributing to Vietnam's rise as a key player in the tech sector, the specific investments being made, and the potential challenges faced by foreign direct investment (FDI) in the country. Vietnam's Rising Importance in Semiconductor Production The semiconductor industry is at the heart of modern technology, powering everything from smartphones to advanced computing systems. Vietnam is positioning itself as a major player in this industry, with substantial investments being made by leading technology companies. In 2023, the global interest in Vietnam's semiconductor sector has intensified. The country is poised to become a significant producer of essential semiconductor devices, which are crucial for various high-tech applications. This development aligns with the broader trend of increased FDI in Vietnam, reflecting confidence in the country’s capacity to become a key hub for semiconductor manufacturing. Key Investments by Global Tech Giants Several prominent technology companies are making substantial investments in Vietnam, signaling the country’s growing importance in the global tech landscape. Intel's Investment Intel, a leading semiconductor manufacturer, has committed $1.2 billion to establish a new semiconductor chip production facility in Ho Chi Minh City. This investment marks Intel’s third global manufacturing site, with existing facilities in Scotland and Israel. The Ho Chi Minh City plant is expected to play a crucial role in meeting the projected demand for semiconductor chips, with Intel aiming to supply 20% of the world’s semiconductor chips by 2030. Samsung and LG's Contributions In addition to Intel, other major technology companies are also investing heavily in Vietnam. Samsung has announced a $1.5 billion investment, while LG is contributing an additional $1 billion. These investments highlight the increasing importance of Vietnam as a strategic location for technology manufacturing. Japanese Investment in Manufacturing Furthermore, a Japanese company has received a license from the Industrial Zone Management Board in Hanoi to produce components for Boeing, ship components, and Shinkansen parts. This investment not only underscores the diverse range of manufacturing activities in Vietnam but also indicates the country’s potential to support advanced manufacturing sectors. The Role of FDI in Vietnam’s Tech Industry The influx of FDI into Vietnam is a testament to the country’s growing appeal as a manufacturing hub. Prof. Nguyen Mai, Chairman of Vietnam’s Association of Foreign Investment Enterprises, has highlighted the positive trends in FDI, particularly noting the high-quality investments from leading global technology firms. This optimism is expected to continue into 2023, with Vietnam increasingly being recognized as a key player in the tech industry. Challenges and Considerations Despite the positive developments, there are challenges associated with foreign investments in Vietnam. One significant concern is transfer pricing, a practice where companies manipulate the prices of goods and services between their subsidiaries to shift profits and reduce tax liabilities. Recent data from the Ministry of Finance revealed that 55% of FDI enterprises reported losses in 2021, an increase from the previous year. This rise in reported losses has raised concerns about the potential impact of transfer pricing on the country’s economic stability. Moreover, external factors such as the COVID-19 pandemic and global political conflicts have posed challenges for businesses operating in Vietnam. These factors have contributed to a complex environment for foreign investors, requiring a nuanced analysis to differentiate between businesses facing genuine operational difficulties and those potentially engaging in financial practices like transfer pricing. Conclusion Vietnam’s rise as a hub for semiconductor production and technology manufacturing is a significant development in the global tech industry. The substantial investments by major technology companies, including Intel, Samsung, and LG, underscore the country’s growing importance in the tech sector. However, challenges such as transfer pricing and the impact of global uncertainties must be carefully managed to ensure sustained growth and stability in Vietnam’s investment landscape. As Vietnam continues to attract global investment and develop its tech infrastructure, it is poised to play an increasingly prominent role in the global semiconductor market. For business owners and investors, understanding these dynamics and navigating the associated challenges will be crucial in leveraging the opportunities presented by Vietnam’s burgeoning tech sector.
View DetailTech leaders meet in Hanoi during Biden's Vietnam visit
18/10/2023
The tech landscape in Vietnam is gaining international attention, as leading U.S. semiconductor and digital companies converge in Hanoi for pivotal strategic discussions. This high-level meeting coincides with U.S. President Joe Biden's visit to Vietnam, highlighting efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between the two nations. The gathering is expected to draw senior executives from industry giants such as Intel, GlobalFoundries, and Google, signaling the U.S.'s intent to expand Vietnam's role in the global semiconductor industry. Strengthening Bilateral Ties in Technology As President Biden visits Vietnam, discussions between Vietnamese officials and U.S. companies are expected to focus on strengthening collaboration in the semiconductor sector. Notable companies like Intel, Amkor, Marvell, and Boeing are anticipated to attend the meeting, along with approximately 30 top executives and government officials. While this roundtable event remains unannounced, its strategic importance is evident, particularly as it aligns with U.S. objectives to boost Vietnam’s semiconductor manufacturing capabilities. The semiconductor industry is central to the discussions, with an emphasis on Vietnam’s potential to become a key player in chipmaking. These talks underscore the growing importance of Vietnam in the tech supply chain and are likely to influence future policies aimed at enhancing Vietnam's technological infrastructure. Vietnam’s Semiconductor Ambitions Several U.S. semiconductor companies have already invested in Vietnam, recognizing its potential as a rising hub for tech manufacturing. Intel, for instance, operates its largest global chip assembly and testing facility in southern Vietnam, representing a $1.5 billion investment. Amkor is also contributing to the country's semiconductor industry, with a state-of-the-art mega factory near Hanoi. Vietnam's aspirations in the semiconductor field extend beyond assembly and testing. The country has expressed interest in building its own chip fabrication plants (fabs), with discussions between Vietnamese officials and U.S. semiconductor companies focusing on this ambition. GlobalFoundries, a leader in integrated circuit manufacturing for smartphones, cars, and other applications, has been part of these talks, highlighting Vietnam’s potential to become a regional leader in chip design and manufacturing. However, the road to establishing Vietnam as a key player in semiconductor fabrication is not without challenges. A shortage of skilled engineers may slow the country’s progress, underscoring the need for investment in education and workforce development to support the growing industry. Collaboration on Artificial Intelligence Beyond semiconductors, artificial intelligence (AI) represents another area where U.S.-Vietnam collaboration could flourish. Vietnam has been in discussions with major U.S. tech companies, including Google, to explore opportunities for AI development. As Google is a global leader in AI technology, its involvement in these talks suggests that Vietnam is positioning itself to become a significant player in the AI sector. Vietnam’s growing interest in AI aligns with the U.S. strategy of building stronger ties with the country. Collaboration in AI could unlock new opportunities for Vietnam in sectors such as healthcare, finance, and manufacturing, where AI-driven solutions are becoming increasingly critical. As the Vietnamese government continues to engage with U.S. tech companies, the potential for partnerships in AI is likely to grow, further strengthening the technological relationship between the two nations. TMA Solutions: A Key Contributor to Vietnam’s Tech Ecosystem TMA Solutions, a prominent Vietnamese technology company, is playing a crucial role in advancing the country's tech ecosystem. With a commitment to delivering high-quality services that meet international standards, TMA has established itself as a leader in software development and IT solutions. The company’s certifications, including CMMI Level 5, ISO 27001, and ISO 9001, demonstrate its dedication to maintaining the highest levels of service quality. TMA’s global client network spans North America, Europe, and Asia, allowing the company to cater to a wide range of customer needs across different markets. This international presence has positioned TMA as a trusted partner for businesses seeking tailored software solutions, further enhancing Vietnam’s reputation as a destination for high-quality IT services. Challenges and Opportunities for Vietnam’s Tech Future Vietnam’s semiconductor and AI ambitions are poised for growth, but challenges remain. The country’s shortage of engineers could slow the pace of development in the semiconductor industry, while the establishment of fabs will require significant investment and expertise. However, the involvement of major U.S. companies in Vietnam’s tech ecosystem suggests that the country is on the right path to becoming a key player in both semiconductors and AI. The U.S.-Vietnam relationship is entering a new phase, with technology at the center of bilateral talks. As Vietnam continues to attract investment from global tech giants like Intel, Google, and GlobalFoundries, the future looks bright for the country’s role in the global technology supply chain. With strong collaboration between the two nations, Vietnam is well-positioned to become a leader in semiconductor manufacturing and AI development. In conclusion, the strategic talks during President Biden’s visit to Vietnam mark a significant milestone in U.S.-Vietnam relations, particularly in the technology sector. As Vietnam continues to strengthen its semiconductor and AI capabilities, the country's tech industry is poised for rapid growth, driven by international investment and collaboration. This progress will not only benefit Vietnam but also contribute to the broader global technology landscape.
View DetailVietnam - Potential Partner for Japan's Semiconductor
07/11/2023
The head of the government suggested that Japan support Vietnam in advancing its digital transformation, green transition, and innovation; grow its high-tech and semiconductor industries; and support its biotechnology, pharmaceutical, and medical equipment sectors to support public health care.Tech Giants Converge in Hanoi for Strategic Talks Amid Biden's Vietnam VisitVietnam's Semiconductor Industry: A Global PlayerAccording to the Northeast nation's Minister of Economy, Trade, and Industry, Japan wants to work with Vietnam to survey, exploit, and process rare earth elements as well as to establish associated industries.During their Friday meeting in Hanoi, the two leaders of Japan and Vietnam discussed the suggestions. Japan's government departments would work with their Vietnamese counterparts through task forces to enhance collaboration, transfer of technology, and training of human resources.Vietnamese Prime Minister applauded the idea of task forces to expedite collaboration on certain projects and said that the Vietnamese government will establish advantageous circumstances to attract Japanese investment.In May, there were three projects totaling JPY61 billion (US$500 million) in official development assistance signed by Vietnam and Japan.Japan is the largest donor of Official Development Assistance to Vietnam, having given the nation loans totaling over $21.6 billion, non-refundable aid, and technical support since 1992.Source: Vietnam Government Portal
View DetailWeb3 - The Future of the Internet
30/06/2023
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, Web3, often hailed as the next generation of the internet, is transforming how businesses operate and engage with users. Web3 represents a decentralized version of the internet, powered by blockchain technology, smart contracts, and peer-to-peer networks. This emerging technology promises to bring about significant advancements in various industries, with finance, social platforms, and gaming leading the charge. Web3 in Numbers: A Growing Ecosystem The adoption of Web3 is on the rise, with finance applications benefiting the most from its decentralized and transparent architecture. In fact, 46% of finance apps are now utilizing Web3 technology. Beyond finance, other sectors such as social applications (8.9%) and gaming (5.7%) are also embracing Web3 to create more interactive and secure user experiences. From a geographical standpoint, North America leads the global Web3 economy, accounting for 34% of the market. Europe holds 24%, and the Asia-Pacific region ranks third with 18%. The remaining market share is distributed among the Middle East and Africa (14%) and South America (10%). Web3 Blockchain Market: Current Trends and Future Growth Web3’s growth is reflected in the rapid expansion of the blockchain market. In 2021, the global Web3 blockchain market was valued at USD 3.8 billion. The market saw a slight dip in 2022, with a valuation of USD 1.73 billion, but it is projected to experience exponential growth. Experts anticipate the Web3 blockchain market to expand at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 47.1% from 2023 to 2030, driven by growing interest and investments in decentralized technologies. Looking ahead, the market’s revenue is expected to reach USD 23.3 billion by 2028, achieving a CAGR of 41.6% during this period. The North American market, which dominated in 2022 with over 37% of global revenue share, will continue to play a pivotal role in this growth. At the same time, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to become the fastest-growing market, thanks to its technological advancements and adoption of blockchain applications across various sectors. Opportunities and Benefits for Businesses Web3 presents a wealth of opportunities for businesses looking to enhance their digital strategies and improve operational efficiency. Key benefits of Web3 include: Decentralization: Traditional centralized systems are prone to data breaches, monopolies, and censorship. Web3 offers a decentralized alternative, distributing control and enhancing security and privacy for users and businesses alike. Enhanced Transparency: Web3 is built on blockchain technology, which provides an immutable ledger of transactions and data. This transparency builds trust among users and fosters greater accountability for businesses. Improved Security: With data breaches and cyberattacks becoming increasingly common, Web3’s cryptographic security measures provide a robust defense against such threats, ensuring the safety of user data. Cost Efficiency: Web3 reduces the need for intermediaries in transactions, cutting down on costs for businesses. By automating processes through smart contracts, businesses can operate more efficiently and effectively. Regional Insights: A Global Phenomenon The Web3 revolution is not confined to one region. While North America remains the dominant player, Asia-Pacific is expected to outpace other regions in terms of growth. The region’s rapid adoption of blockchain and digital technologies positions it as a key driver in the future of Web3. Businesses in North America have long benefited from a mature market and early access to cutting-edge technologies. However, emerging markets in Asia are quickly catching up, presenting exciting opportunities for global companies to expand their reach and tap into new customer bases. The Middle East, Africa, and South America are also gaining traction, leveraging Web3’s decentralized infrastructure to create more inclusive and accessible economies. TMA Solutions: A Leader in Web3 Innovation As Web3 continues to reshape industries, it’s crucial for businesses to partner with experienced technology providers to stay ahead of the curve. TMA Solutions is a leader in this space, with over 27 years of experience in the software industry. Serving customers in 30 countries, TMA has the expertise and scale to deliver cutting-edge Web3 solutions tailored to the specific needs of businesses. One of TMA’s greatest strengths lies in its technical capability. With a team of over 4,000 software engineers, TMA can handle large and complex projects across a wide range of technologies, including AI, IoT, Big Data, Cloud Computing, and Blockchain. This depth of expertise enables TMA to provide businesses with the tools they need to harness the power of Web3 and thrive in an increasingly digital world. Conclusion: Embracing the Future with Web3 The potential of Web3 is vast, and businesses that leverage this transformative technology stand to gain a competitive edge in the market. From decentralization and transparency to security and cost efficiency, Web3 offers numerous advantages for forward-thinking companies. As the global Web3 blockchain market continues to grow, with North America and Asia-Pacific leading the charge, partnering with experienced technology providers like TMA Solutions will be essential for businesses looking to navigate this new digital frontier. With its extensive experience, technical expertise, and global reach, TMA is well-positioned to help businesses seize the opportunities of Web3 and drive innovation for the future.
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