The Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee has issued Decision No. 2685/QD-UBND, approving the “Science, Technology, and Innovation Potential Enhancement Program for the 2026-2030 Period.”
The program identifies science, technology, and innovation (STI) as the primary drivers for the rapid and sustainable growth of Vietnam's largest metropolis.
Under this plan, the city aims to become a leading STI hub in Southeast Asia, possessing the capacity to research, master, and commercialize advanced technologies. This progress is expected to contribute directly to economic growth, promote sustainable development, and improve the quality of life for its citizens.
The program is built on an enterprise-centric model, where businesses are the heart of the innovation ecosystem. Under this approach, market demand and practical development requirements will serve as a foundation for determining research tasks. Meanwhile, the State will act as a facilitator—perfecting institutions, commissioning key national projects, and coordinating resources for research, application, and technology commercialization.
HCMC is also shifting strongly toward an evaluation mechanism based on output efficiency, practical applicability, and the added value generated by scientific tasks. The city will prioritize the development of S&T-based enterprises, innovative startups, spin-offs, and innovative small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).
According to the specific targets set for 2030, total social expenditure on research and development (R&D) in the city is expected to reach 2-3% of its GRDP, with non-state investment accounting for over 60%. The city strives to implement a minimum of 50 S&T tasks annually, with at least 40 tasks reaching final evaluation or completion stages each year.
The city further targets an application rate of at least 60% for research results within 12 months of project completion. Additionally, the proportion of enterprises utilizing research results from institutes and universities in their production and business activities is expected to reach at least 25%. By 2030, HCMC aims to produce at least 3,500 scientific articles in the Scopus/ISI systems and file at least 500 intellectual property applications, including 300 for patents and utility solutions.
A notable objective of the program is the establishment of at least five research centers of international standard in priority fields. Furthermore, the city plans to develop a workforce of at least 5,000 young science and technology professionals during the 2026-2030 period.
Google translate