August 28, 2026, (Inside AI) — Vietnam is pressing Qualcomm and Samsung Electronics to expand investment in artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and research and development. The push aims to position the country as a regional innovation hub.
Senior Vietnamese officials met with executives from both companies this week in Hanoi. The discussions centered on deepening collaboration in chip design, AI infrastructure, and workforce training. Vietnam wants to move beyond low-cost assembly into higher-value technology sectors.
The government sees foreign investment as critical to upgrading its tech ecosystem. Qualcomm already operates R&D facilities in Vietnam. Samsung runs major manufacturing plants there, producing a large share of its smartphones globally.
Vietnam's strategy mirrors moves by other Southeast Asian nations seeking to attract semiconductor investment amid global supply chain shifts. The country offers tax incentives, young engineering talent, and proximity to key markets.
Why Vietnam's Tech Ambitions Depend on Foreign Partners
Vietnam lacks a domestic chip giant, making partnerships with firms like Qualcomm and Samsung essential. Local universities are expanding engineering programs, but advanced manufacturing and design expertise still come largely from abroad.
Qualcomm has been building its presence in Vietnam for years, focusing on 5G and AI research. Samsung's Bac Ninh and Thai Nguyen plants are among its largest globally. Both companies see Vietnam as a hedge against concentration risks in other Asian markets.
Officials did not disclose specific investment figures or timelines. However, sources familiar with the talks said Vietnam proposed joint AI research centers and semiconductor training programs.
The push comes as global chip demand rises sharply, driven by AI workloads and data center expansion. Vietnam wants a slice of that growth, not just as a manufacturing base but as a design and innovation player.
Competition for Semiconductor Investment Heats Up
Vietnam faces stiff competition from India, Malaysia, and Thailand, all courting chipmakers with incentives. India has approved major fab projects, while Malaysia dominates packaging and testing.
Vietnam's advantage lies in political stability, low labor costs, and existing electronics supply chains. But infrastructure gaps, including reliable power and logistics, remain challenges. The government has pledged to address these bottlenecks.
For Qualcomm, expanding in Vietnam reduces reliance on any single country for R&D talent. For Samsung, deeper local R&D could speed product development for Southeast Asian markets.
Industry analysts note that Vietnam's success will depend on execution, not just incentives. Training enough engineers and protecting intellectual property are key tests. The government has signaled willingness to reform regulations to attract high-tech investment.
Vietnam's tech export revenue reached record levels in 2025, driven by electronics. The country aims to increase the share of domestically designed chips and AI software in that total over the next decade.
