Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, head of the Government Steering Committee for Science, Technology, Innovation, Digital Transformation, and Project 06, chaired the committee’s first meeting at the Government Office in Hano on March 18. The meeting was held both in person and via videoconference, connecting ministries, sectors, and localities nationwide.

The Government leader acknowledged the remarkable progress made in science, technology, innovation, digital transformation, and the implementation of Project 06. He noted that strong leadership and decisive action from the central to grassroots levels had driven administrative reforms, enhanced governance efficiency, and benefited businesses and citizens. However, he pointed out that digital transformation remains underdeveloped relative to its potential and advantages, failing to become a clear driver of economic growth. Currently, only about 30% of businesses integrate digital technologies into their operations, while remote areas continue to face internet access challenges.

He also laid stress on shortcomings in human resources for science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation, as well as Project 06, with shortages in both quantity and quality, and uneven distribution across regions. Several key tasks are behind schedule, with 37 out of 276 tasks under Project 06 and 19 out of 63 tasks related to digital transformation yet to be completed.

Vietnam has made significant strides in global digital transformation rankings. In 2024, its e-Government Development Index climbed 15 places to 71st out of 193 countries, the Global Innovation Index rose two spots to 44th out of 133, and the Global Cybersecurity Index improved by eight places to 17th out of 194.

On behalf of the Government, PM Chinh hailed the efforts and achievements of ministries, sectors, and localities, the strong leadership of the Government Steering Committee members, the great contributions of the public security forces, and the unity, support, and active participation of citizens and businesses.

Looking ahead, the Government chief called for a shift from passively handling public requests to proactively serving citizens in administrative procedures. He stressed the need for timely recognition of achievements and swift handling of violations while accelerating national digitalization, streamlining administrative processes, and promoting a comprehensive digital society.

He urged continued institutional improvements, including amending multiple laws to create a more open regulatory framework. Infrastructure development must be prioritized, particularly in expanding 5G networks, satellite technology, and national databases.

Enhancing data connectivity and promoting smart governance should go hand in hand with ensuring that administrative procedures are fully processed in the digital environment. Public awareness campaigns must also be intensified to deepen understanding of science, technology, innovation, digital transformation, and administrative reforms.

Regarding Project 06, PM Chinh instructed ministries and agencies to reduce paperwork requirements for 324 administrative procedures where relevant information is already integrated into electronic identification accounts, with completion targeted for Q2 2025. He also called on localities to expedite the digitalization of household registration and land data and explore ways to leverage existing digital records to simplify 200 administrative procedures.

So far, 10 localities-Binh Duong, Dong Nai, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Ho Chi Minh City, Bac Giang, Ha Nam, Nam Dinh, Quang Nam, Quang Ngai, and Khanh Hoa- have begun utilizing land database systems to streamline residency registration procedures.

Digital transformation paves way for Vietnam’s economic modernisation ​

Vietnam’s digital transformation is paving the way for economic modernisation, business innovation, and an enhanced quality of life, according to the US-based website medium.com.