The Future of Vietnam’s High-Tech Parks and Industrial Zones: A Conversation with Le Thanh Son
As Vietnam accelerates its shift towards a more sustainable growth model, high-tech parks and industrial zones are positioned as pivotal players in fostering innovation, technological application, and deeper integration into global value chains. Le Thanh Son, Vice President of the Hanoi Hi-tech and Industrial Park Management Board, shares insights on development orientations, policy mechanisms, and long-term goals.
Embracing Ecological and Smart Industrial Zones
In a bid to ensure sustainable growth, the Management Board aims to transition from traditional industrial zones to ecological, high-tech, and smart industrial zones. This shift is not merely a trend but a necessity, emphasizing the balance between economic, environmental, and social factors.
To achieve this transformation, modern infrastructure, clean energy sources, and well-planned development strategies are paramount. The Management Board has already attracted approximately $364 million in investments by November 2025, achieving 69% of its annual target. This figure includes $12 million in new investments and $352 million in capital increases.
Key measures like institutional reform and digital transformation have been vital in this context. An AI-integrated smart operating system launched in October 2025 is designed to enhance governance and streamline processes, fostering a spirit of cooperation among businesses.
Focused Foreign Direct Investment Strategy
When it comes to foreign direct investment (FDI), the Management Board is selectively attracting investments primarily in high-tech industries such as renewable energy, biotechnology, and semiconductor manufacturing. These sectors not only promise high added value but also facilitate Hanoi’s deeper integration into global value chains.
Collaboration with major corporations and targeting key investment markets—including Japan, South Korea, the U.S., and China—serves as a strategy to attract not just capital but also technological expertise and international experience. Special incentives for R&D and innovation projects further support this strategy, reinforcing investor confidence.
Enhancing Investment Ecosystems
The Management Board has made significant strides in improving mechanisms and policies supporting investment. Administrative procedures have been digitized, and processing times reduced to enhance efficiency. Moreover, several industrial zones have successfully implemented centralized wastewater treatment systems and renewable energy solutions, fulfilling green industrial zone standards.
However, challenges remain, particularly regarding land clearance and the synchronization of external infrastructure—including electricity and roads—with internal requirements. To counter these issues, the Management Board has recommended prioritizing resources for connectivity and creating a streamlined operation center to ensure coordinated management.
Building Human Capital for High-Tech Parks
Human resources play a crucial role in the development of high-tech parks. The Management Board is implementing a three-party cooperation model involving the state, businesses, and universities to ensure that the workforce aligns with actual industry needs.
In Hoa Lac, collaboration among leading technology firms—such as Hanwha, FPT, and Viettel—and various educational institutions fosters a robust environment for training and technology transfer. International experts significantly enhance the local talent pool, offering training and mentorship that keeps Vietnamese engineers abreast of global technological trends. These efforts aim to establish Hoa Lac as a competitive hub for technology investors.
Vision for 2030 and Beyond
Looking forward to 2030, the Management Board envisions a network of interconnected high-tech parks and industrial zones that effectively integrate manufacturing, research, and smart urban services. By 2045, Hanoi aims to develop smart industrial cities connected to international R&D hubs, positioning itself as a leader in innovation.
Strategic focuses include developing ecological industrial zones that promote circular economies, enhancing selective FDI to attract major technology players, and accelerating digital transformation in planning and management processes.
Preparing for High-Quality Investment Waves
In anticipation of a wave of high-quality investments, the Management Board is committed to improving institutional, infrastructural, and human resource conditions. Continuous reforms of regulations and administrative procedures ensure a responsive environment for investors.
Infrastructure developments around Hoa Lac—including new metro lines and expressways—are being expedited, creating a comprehensive science and technology city with necessary amenities and services. Furthermore, strong emphasis on human resource development addresses bottlenecks related to administrative processes and visa regulations for foreign experts.
Ultimately, the Management Board remains committed to fostering a collaborative atmosphere with investors, ensuring that proposals—especially from major technology firms—are addressed efficiently, bolstering Hanoi’s appeal as a prime destination for high-tech investments.
The goal remains to transform Hoa Lac and associated industrial zones into dynamic centers of innovation and smart manufacturing, contributing significantly to Vietnam’s journey toward becoming a self-reliant and sustainable industrial powerhouse by the mid-21st century.