Building Momentum: Semiconductor Industry Sets Ambitious Goals

During the recent Vietnam Semiconductor Summit held in Hanoi’s Hoa Lac High-Tech Park, experts expressed confidence in Vietnam’s potential to develop the semiconductor industry. John Neuffer, CEO of the US Semiconductor Industry Association (SIA), emphasized the importance of semiconductor innovation for future technologies such as AI, quantum computing, autonomous driving, and 5G/6G. He praised Vietnam’s efforts in developing its own national semiconductor strategy and encouraged the country to leverage its strengths to attract more semiconductor investments, particularly in back-end assembly tests.

Vietnam has already seen an influx of semiconductor projects, with companies like Amkor Technology, Hana Micron, Victory Gain Technology Group, and Runergy PV Technology investing in large-scale semiconductor factories. Major players like Marvell and Samsung have also established their presence in Vietnam. The upgraded relationship between Vietnam and the US has further enhanced cooperation in innovation, including the semiconductor industry.

However, Neuffer also highlighted the global challenge of talent shortage in the industry. He commended Vietnam’s objective to produce 50,000 more chip engineers and emphasized the importance of competing for talent. To address this, the government has assigned relevant ministries to develop an action program focused on training human resources for the semiconductor industry.

The Ministry of Planning and Investment (MPI) has proposed three main pillars for human resource development, including university training, technician training, and attracting talent from abroad. Synopsys, Cadence, and Arizona State University are among the organizations supporting Vietnam in this endeavor, providing training, tools, and job opportunities.

Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Chi Dung expressed confidence in Vietnam’s capacity to develop the semiconductor industry, citing the abundance of engineering and technology workforce and reputable universities and institutes. He emphasized Vietnam’s commitment to becoming a reliable partner and a key link in the global semiconductor manufacturing supply chain, with the aim of making a significant contribution to the world’s semiconductor innovation ecosystem.