VIETNAM PUTS SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AT CENTER OF 2026 GROWTH STRATEGY

Workers assemble industrial equipment at a factory in Vietnam - PHOTO: DNCC

HCMC – Vietnam will make science and technology, innovation and digital transformation the core drivers of economic growth in 2026, under a Government resolution guiding this year’s socio-economic development and budget implementation.

The direction is set out in Resolution No. 01 on key tasks and solutions for 2026, reported the Government news website (baochinhphu.vn).

Under the resolution, ministries, agencies and local authorities are required to organize economic management around these drivers while striving to maintain growth momentum, create breakthroughs and improve the efficiency of resource allocation.

The Government has set a target of GDP growth of 10% or higher in 2026, alongside requirements to maintain macroeconomic stability, control inflation and ensure major economic balances.

It noted that global conditions are expected to remain complex and unpredictable, while domestic opportunities and challenges will continue to coexist, with risks stemming from external shocks, climate change, natural disasters, epidemics and non-traditional security issues.

The resolution calls for tighter administrative discipline, expanded decentralisation linked to accountability of leaders, stronger anti-corruption efforts, and continued reform of laws and administrative procedures.

Key priorities also include strengthening existing growth drivers and developing new ones, prioritising investment in strategic and digital infrastructure, and improving the quality of human resources, particularly in high-tech sectors.

Beyond economic development, the Government outlined goals covering social welfare, cultural development, climate change response, environmental protection, regional connectivity, urban development, national defence and security, and deeper international integration.

Ministries, agencies and provincial authorities are tasked with preparing detailed action plans and quarterly and annual growth scenarios for 2026, identifying additional resources for growth, and taking full responsibility to the Government and the prime minister for implementation outcomes.

Source: The Saigon Times