iTech Expo 2026, organized by the Ho Chi Minh City Computer Association (HCA) under the auspices of the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ho Chi Minh City People’s Committee, opened in Ho Chi Minh city on September 30, with the theme “New Tech, Inspiring Innovation.”
Speaking at the opening ceremony, Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Hoang Minh highlighted that Politburo Resolution 57 and the Law on Digital Technology Industry (Law No. 71/2025/QH15) have established vital legal frameworks for digital technology, semiconductors, and artificial intelligence (AI).
“Technological capability is the core component of competitive strength for digital tech companies,” he said, proposing three strategic priorities for the business community.
First, firms must shift strongly from technology adoption to mastery by increasing research and development (R&D) spending, investing in engineering talent, and building "Make in Vietnam" digital products and core technology platforms.
Second, tech capabilities must align with market needs. Companies should develop commercialized solutions addressing specific operational challenges faced by industries, localities, and citizens.
Third, enterprises should leverage collaborative ecosystems. Large corporations must set market demand and pose technological challenges, small businesses and startups should focus on specialized solutions, while universities and research institutes provide knowledge and talent.
“Technology must serve humanity. Digital products and services must be safe, trustworthy, easy to use, and generate practical value while safeguarding national digital sovereignty,” Mr. Minh added.
According to the organizers, iTech Expo 2026 features nearly 100 exhibition booths representing over 200 domestic and international tech organizations. The event showcases more than 1,000 commercial-ready technology products, double the volume presented in 2025, attracting trade visitors from over 20 countries and territories.
Mr. Lam Nguyen Hai Long, President of HCA, noted a strategic pivot in this year’s expo. Semiconductor, microchip, and hardware ecosystems account for nearly 45 percent of the total exhibition space, alongside software, robotics, and network infrastructure.
The three-day event also features more than 20 specialized seminar sessions and panel discussions involving over 100 industry experts. Discussions focus on semiconductor mastery, dual transition in smart manufacturing, circular agriculture, AI application in education and cultural industries, and digital solutions for urban management.
Google translate