Viet Nam’s Digital Transformation Journey: Infrastructure Upgrades, Policies, and Community Development Programs
Viet Nam’s Internet Revolution: A Case Study in Digital Progress and Innovation
Viet Nam has established itself as a prime example of digital transformation within the Asia Pacific region. Home to the world’s 12th largest population of internet users, Viet Nam’s coordinated approach to infrastructure investment, policy development, and technical collaboration has cemented its position as a regional technology leader. Hosting APNIC 60 in Da Nang symbolizes the nation’s commitment to fostering global dialogues on internet transformation. Through the National Digital Transformation Program to 2025, with a vision extended to 2030, Viet Nam envisions a cohesive digital economy, government, and society while empowering local enterprises to thrive on a global scale.
From Broadband Accessibility to Nationwide 5G: The Blueprint for Connectivity
The cornerstone of Viet Nam’s digital transformation lies in its unwavering focus on universal connectivity. With the ambitious target of integrating nationwide 5G and broadband accessibility by 2030, the country plans to make its digital economy contribute 30% of its GDP. Investments in internet infrastructure have facilitated steady growth in both urban and rural areas. In 2023, urban internet penetration rose to 84.7%, while rural connectivity significantly increased to 74%. Complementing mobile connectivity, Viet Nam also integrates satellite services through platforms like VNPT’s Vinasat-1 and Vinasat-2 for remote and underserved regions, bolstered further by the upcoming rollout of SpaceX’s Starlink service.
Empowering the Future Through Policy, Technology, and Education
At the helm of Viet Nam’s internet governance is the Viet Nam Internet Network Information Centre (VNNIC), which not only manages IP addresses and domain names but also spearheads educational initiatives such as youth-centric governance workshops and university programs. Together with critical events like the annual VNNIC Internet Conference and VNIX-NOG, these efforts underscore the country’s ambition to create a generation of future-ready internet leaders. Meanwhile, Viet Nam has prioritized major IPv6 adoption policies, currently achieving 61.7% IPv6 capability, with a roadmap to an IPv6-only internet by 2032. Focused investments in Route Origin Authorization (ROA) and cybersecurity initiatives further demonstrate resilience in an era of rising digital dependence.
State-of-the-Art Infrastructure and Data Expansion
Viet Nam is rapidly expanding its digital infrastructure to support its burgeoning internet ecosystem. The launch of the Asia Direct Cable (ADC) in 2025 has significantly boosted the country’s submarine cable capacity; however, future plans are set to mitigate its relatively lower cable count in comparison to regional counterparts. Collaboration between local ISPs like Viettel and VNPT, coupled with global CDN providers such as Cloudflare and Akamai establishing a robust local footprint, ensures data-intensive applications and services are well-supported nationwide. The National Data Strategy further seeks to integrate unified national databases and online administrative governance, propelling the nation’s aspirations for digital inclusivity and efficiency.
Building a Secure Internet Future
As cybersecurity takes center stage, Viet Nam is crafting a robust defense mechanism, including the establishment of Viet Nam Cybersecurity Day and active participation in organizations like APCERT and FIRST. The Cybersecurity Emergency Response Teams/Coordinating Center (VNCERT/CC) continues to strengthen readiness against potential threats. With routes toward scaling RPKI deployment and modernizing its network strategies, Viet Nam is not only focusing on innovation but also security and resilience. Looking ahead, its commitment to IPv6 deployment and international collaboration sets a benchmark for digital transformation best practices around the globe.
