As part of the project "Supporting the Development of Small and Medium Enterprises in ASEAN in Vietnam - Phase II," the Department of Enterprise Development (Ministry of Planning and Investment) has collaborated with the German Development Cooperation (GIZ) to organize a workshop titled "Business in the Digital World: International Trends, Vietnam's Policies, and Implications for Enterprises." The event was held to support Vietnamese businesses in their digital transformation process, helping to build responsible business strategies in the online environment, ensuring alignment with global trends and compliance with Vietnam's legal policies. As one of the guests, RIDE Institute shared insights on the development of AI in the era of businesses undergoing digital transformation.
Attracting domestic and foreign enterprises
The event attracted nearly 100 representatives from government regulatory agencies, business associations, e-commerce platforms, international development partners, and the technology business community, aimed at exchanging and discussing opportunities and challenges in the digital age, while also raising awareness about responsible business practices in the digital environment.
The objective of the event
In the era of technology, such as AI, Blockchain, IoT, Cloud Computing, and Big Data, profoundly changing the way businesses operate and compete, digital transformation has become a key driver helping Vietnam enhance productivity, reduce carbon emissions, and aim to become a high-income country by 2045. Alongside the opportunities are challenges related to cybersecurity, data privacy, AI ethics, and business transparency.
In Vietnam, the government has quickly amended foundational laws such as the Consumer Protection Law (2023), the Advertising Law (2025), and the Personal Data Protection Law (2025), while also implementing the National Digital Transformation Program by 2025, with a vision for 2030, aiming for the digital economy to contribute 30% of GDP by 2030.
Update on international trends and new policies.
In management, development, and application of digital technology – especially regarding legal frameworks for AI, data, and online advertising.
Discussion of opportunities and challenges
Vietnamese enterprises are facing challenges in the digital transformation process, from technological, legal, to business ethics aspects.
Multilateral connection and dialogue
Regulatory agencies, international organizations, the research community, and the business community – creating a collaborative foundation to promote innovation and the development of the digital economy in Vietnam.
Opening of the event
The two representatives of the co-organizing units, Mr. Nguyễn Đức Trung and Mr. Dennis Quennet, shared a common perspective and emphasized the importance of responsible business practices.
From that perspective, it can be seen that in the context of the ongoing digital revolution, the pursuit of pure profit is no longer sufficient. Responsible business practices are no longer an option; they have become a core foundation and a prerequisite for companies to build trust with customers, partners, and the community, thereby ensuring sustainable and long-term development in a rapidly changing world.
In the next presentation, the Project Director of GIZ Vietnam provided an overview of the global trends in the development of the digital economy, while also introducing the technical assistance programs that GIZ is actively implementing in Vietnam. The representative emphasized that, in the current context, the digital economy is not only seen as a mere driver of economic growth but also as a powerful tool to promote innovation, enhance equality, and realize sustainable development goals.
The representative of Misa also analyzed the opportunities and challenges of emerging digital technologies (AI, Cloud, Blockchain, Big Data) through practical examples in Vietnam. The presentation clearly indicated that while technology helps businesses expand their markets and increase productivity, the risks of cybersecurity and information security pose a significant threat.
Responsible business in
management and application of AI
In the presentation, Dr. Cai analyzes in detail the risk groups that the EU AI Act classifies for AI systems, ranging from minimal, limited, high to prohibited risks, along with requirements for transparency, safety, data governance, and impact assessment on users and society.
He emphasized that understanding and applying these principles not only helps businesses comply with international regulations but also is the key to building trust with global customers and partners.
In addition to introducing the European legal framework, Dr. Cac also relates it to the practical situation in Vietnam – where the AI ecosystem is developing rapidly but still lacks unified standards for ethics, transparency, and technology risk management. He calls on Vietnamese businesses, especially those applying AI in manufacturing, e-commerce, and services, to soon develop a Responsible AI strategy – ensuring a balance between innovation and legal compliance, between business interests and social safety.
Legal foundation for development
sustainable business
Coming from Foreign Trade University, speaker Ha Cong Anh Bao delivered an important presentation on the legal framework in digital business. The presentation focused on updating and analyzing the latest policies related to three core areas: consumer rights protection, personal data protection, and regulations on online advertising.
The goal of this sharing is to provide businesses with a clear direction, helping them to build a business strategy that not only complies with the law but also ensures sustainability and long-term responsibility.
Connect the whole
The open discussion session is one of the most important highlights of the event, taking place in a very lively and candid atmosphere. With the participation of reputable representatives from government regulatory agencies, industry associations, pioneering technology companies, and international partners, the forum has facilitated a multi-dimensional exchange among the parties regarding challenges and opportunities. The focus of the discussion is to find the most effective ways to promote responsible business practices, ensure the transparent application of Artificial Intelligence (AI), and develop policies that support businesses in the process of digital transformation occurring safely and sustainably.
In particular, RIDE has been highly regarded by the community and partners, affirming its role as an important strategic bridge between three key factors: in-depth research, macro policy planning, and the operational practices of businesses. This position helps the Institute contribute positively to the strategic direction of AI and digital technology development in Vietnam, ensuring that all technological advancements are oriented towards humanistic values, responsibility, and providing long-term value for the community and society.
Action for a sustainable future
The content series in the program not only provides diverse perspectives on the trends of digital economic development and business management in the AI era but also opens a forum for open dialogue among regulatory agencies, international organizations, academia, and the Vietnamese business community. The presentations and discussions have indicated that responsible business practices, transparent governance, and the ethical application of AI are key to ensuring that businesses remain resilient in the face of global fluctuations while seizing opportunities for sustainable growth.
The presence and contributions of RIDE at the event also demonstrate the Institute's strong commitment to partnering with international organizations such as GIZ and APED, promoting responsible business practices and sustainable digital transformation for the Vietnamese business community. RIDE is not just an observer but also a creator – contributing to shaping the future of AI and the digital economy in Vietnam, for a common goal: developing technology for people, for inclusive and sustainable development.