What's Happening?
Viettel, a major Vietnamese telecommunications company, has initiated the construction of Vietnam's first semiconductor fabrication plant at the Hoa Lac Hi-Tech Park in Hanoi. The facility is set to begin trial production of 32-nanometer chips next year.
This development marks a significant milestone for Vietnam as it establishes its first indigenous semiconductor manufacturing capability. The plant aims to supply chips to various key industries, including aerospace, telecommunications, the Internet of Things, automobile manufacturing, medical devices, and automation. Viettel's chairman and CEO, Tao Duc Thang, highlighted the project's role in refining manufacturing processes and enhancing production efficiency. The plant is also expected to serve as a training center, contributing to Vietnam's goal of training 50,000 chip design engineers by 2030.
Why It's Important?
The establishment of Vietnam's first semiconductor plant is a crucial step in the country's efforts to integrate into the global semiconductor value chain. By developing its own manufacturing capabilities, Vietnam aims to transition from being a participant to an owner in the semiconductor industry. This move is expected to strengthen Vietnam's position in the digital economy and enhance its technological capabilities. The plant will not only boost local industries but also create a skilled workforce, with plans to train thousands of engineers. This development could attract further investments and partnerships, positioning Vietnam as a competitive player in the global tech landscape.
What's Next?
As the plant progresses towards operational status, Viettel plans to optimize its manufacturing processes between 2028 and 2030. The focus will be on improving production-line efficiency and aligning with industry standards. The Vietnamese government, under Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, supports this initiative as part of a broader strategy to master sophisticated technologies. The plant's success could lead to further advancements in Vietnam's semiconductor industry, potentially attracting more international collaborations and investments. The training programs associated with the plant will also play a critical role in developing a robust semiconductor workforce, essential for sustaining growth in this sector.
