The Vietnamese Consul General in Guangzhou, Nguyễn Việt Dũng, has urged Chinese technology companies to enhance their collaboration with Vietnam in key areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), semiconductors, the Internet of Things (IoT), digital transformation, and clean energy. This appeal was made during a recent seminar focused on strengthening bilateral investment, trade, science, technology, and innovation ties between the two nations.
The seminar, held in Shenzhen, Guangdong Province, drew significant participation from various businesses, organizations, and experts from Guangdong and surrounding regions. These entities operate in crucial sectors including manufacturing, new energy, AI, IoT, pharmaceuticals, biotechnology, and infrastructure development.
Dũng highlighted that 2025 is a pivotal year as it marks the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and China, as well as the Year of Vietnam-China Humanistic Exchange. He emphasized the strategic role of Guangdong Province and Shenzhen City in advancing practical, comprehensive, and mutually beneficial cooperation between the two countries.
In 2024, bilateral trade between Vietnam and China reached $260.65 billion, representing a 13.5% increase from the previous year. China has been Vietnam’s largest trading partner for 20 consecutive years. Guangdong Province alone accounted for 21% of the total import-export turnover, amounting to $56.3 billion, and maintained its position as the Chinese locality with the largest trade volume with Vietnam.
Regarding investment, China was the sixth-largest foreign investor in Vietnam and led in the number of investment projects in the previous year. There has been a noticeable shift in Chinese investments towards high-tech sectors such as component manufacturing, electronics, the automotive industry, and clean energy. Notable corporations like Goertek and BYD are actively expanding their investments in Vietnam.
Dũng stated that Vietnam is implementing key strategies to drive scientific and technological development and innovation towards sustainable growth. These initiatives include the Science, Technology, and Innovation Development Strategy to 2030, the Politburo’s Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW on breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation, the National Energy Strategy to 2045, and the National Climate Change Strategy to 2050, which aims for net-zero emissions by 2050.
According to the 2024 Global Innovation Index (GII), Vietnam ranked 44th out of 133 countries, positioning it among the top 5 startup ecosystems in ASEAN and 12th in the Asia-Pacific region.
The Consul General proposed organizing thematic workshops and strengthening connections between research institutes, universities, and businesses from both countries. He also invited Chinese experts to visit Vietnam to share their experiences in technology transfer, smart infrastructure development, and carbon emission reduction.
A representative from the Vietnam Trade Office in Guangzhou presented an overview of the economic and trade relations between the two countries, as well as Vietnam’s promising investment environment. Vietnam recorded a significant GDP growth rate of 7.09% in 2024, surpassing forecasts by many international organizations. The country is heavily investing in transport infrastructure, renewable energy, and innovation while facilitating logistics development and attracting businesses committed to green and sustainable growth.
Vietnam has signed 17 bilateral and multilateral free trade agreements, with two more currently under negotiation. The country is committed to deep integration into the world economy and building a transparent and open business environment, ready to serve as a solid launchpad for the long-term development of both domestic and foreign enterprises.
Chinese companies expressed strong interest in the Vietnamese market, particularly in digital technology and innovation. Tech firms from Shenzhen showed an intention to collaborate on AI applications in manufacturing, IoT for smart cities, and biomedicine. Infrastructure companies highlighted opportunities in smart transport and green industrial zones.
Participants hoped that the Vietnamese Consulate General in Guangzhou would continue to support them in their engagement with Vietnam’s authorities and businesses.
Dũng reaffirmed that Vietnam always welcomes Chinese businesses and investors, especially in high-tech, digital transformation, and sustainable development sectors. He reiterated the Consulate General’s commitment to providing maximum support for enterprises in both countries to grow and engage in practical, sustainable, and mutually beneficial cooperation.
