Vietnam is seeking to deepen its collaboration with Japan in key strategic technology areas such as semiconductors, artificial intelligence, and renewable energy. This initiative also includes a push for enhanced workforce development support. The proposal was made during a meeting on September 3 between Vietnamese science and technology officials and members of Japan’s House of Representatives. The discussions centered on advancing cooperation in semiconductor research, AI, energy technologies, and personnel training, alongside fostering closer business ties in strategic technology sectors.
Through the NEXUS joint research program, Vietnam and Japan are working on co-funding semiconductor research, which encompasses chip design, advanced materials, supporting technologies, and manufacturing processes. Both nations envision expanding their collaboration beyond 2027. Furthermore, Vietnam is seeking Japan’s assistance in developing sovereign AI capabilities and Vietnamese-language large language models. To this end, a joint working group from Vietnam and Japan is slated to convene in October to advance technology transfer and bolster business connections in the semiconductor industry.
Vietnam has proposed transforming NEXUS into an annual cooperation framework while broadening research efforts to include AI, new materials, renewable energy, and biomedicine. The proposal also emphasizes the need for stronger business partnerships and enhanced training programs aimed at developing highly skilled engineers and experts in strategic technology fields. Japan has shown interest in Vietnam’s semiconductor development, labor policies, and its long-term energy strategy, which includes plans to expand nuclear power capabilities.
Vietnam’s energy strategy involves a diversified mix, incorporating conventional energy, renewables, and nuclear power, with ongoing research into small modular reactors. This energy transition is anticipated to demand substantial investment and a highly skilled workforce. Vietnam is hopeful that Japan will continue to be a key partner in developing the requisite energy infrastructure to support its burgeoning high-tech industries.