Quy Nhon (capital of the former province of Binh Dinh, which is now part of Gia Lai province) could become an innovation hub and a special policy testing ground, serving as a sandbox for artificial intelligence, open data, new energy, and more.

This proposal was put forth by Mr. Vu Anh Tu, Chief Technology Officer of FPT Group, at a recent promotion conference, organized by Gia Lai province, which saw participation from international organizations, business associations, investment promotion agencies, and over 400 domestic and international enterprises.

Specifically, Mr. Tu urged the province to continue removing barriers, reforming institutions, and boldly piloting new mechanisms to create an investment environment friendly to both citizens and businesses.

The FPT Group expert also recommended several strategic breakthrough directions for Gia Lai, including establishing an Innovation Zone in Quy Nhon to become a testing ground for specific policy mechanisms, an experimental sandbox for artificial intelligence, open data, new energy, and marine technology, thus serving as the innovation nucleus for Vietnam's South Central Coast and Central Highlands regions.

Furthermore, he suggested developing a coastal technology startup ecosystem, fostering connections between universities, research institutes, businesses, and international partners, and investing in core technology platforms focusing on AI, semiconductors, big data, and cloud computing—to be applied in tourism, healthcare, agriculture, and marine economy—with the goal of becoming an AI Hub for Vietnam and the region.

Additionally, he suggested establishing a local Science and Technology Fund, with the State playing a leading role and private enterprises participating, and piloting a model of "comprehensive smart digital citizens" – integrating healthcare, education, administration, public services, and digital identification.

Speaking at the event, Mr. Pham Anh Tuan, Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee, called for investors and businesses to invest in the province in areas such as processing and manufacturing industries; high-tech industries, artificial intelligence (AI), and semiconductors; and the development of port services and logistics centers.