Da Nang aims to become Vietnam’s pioneering AI City
DNO - Da Nang is positioning itself at the forefront of Vietnam’s digital transformation, with an ambitious vision to become an “AI City”.
Building a digital economy for double-digit growth
Speaking at the ASEAN City Leaders Conference held within the framework of the ASEAN Future Forum 2026 in the capital city of Ha Noi on June 8, Vice Chairman of the Da Nang People’s Committee Ho Quang Buu outlined the city’s strategy for achieving double-digit economic growth through digital transformation, innovation and artificial intelligence (AI).
The digital economy will play a central role in Da Nang’s future development. The city has set a target for the digital economy to account for 35-40 percent of its Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) by 2030, reflecting a major shift toward growth driven by data, AI and advanced technologies.
To support this vision, Da Nang has established a series of measurable goals. Core digital industries, including software development and telecommunications, are expected to maintain annual growth of at least 15 percent beginning in 2026.
A pilot data exchange platform is expected to be launched in 2026, laying the foundation for a future data economy.
Digital payments are another key priority. Da Nang aims for the value of cashless transactions to exceed ten times its GRDP in 2026 and reach 30 times GRDP by 2030. At the same time, at least 90 percent of household businesses and retail shops are expected to adopt digital platforms and tools.
Besides, Da Nang is accelerating digital transformation among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). By 2026, at least 40 percent of SMEs are expected to use digital platforms in management, production and business operations. This figure is targeted to rise to 90 percent by 2030.
Da Nang’s strategy is supported by a favourable policy environment. Recent resolutions passed by Vietnam’s National Assembly grant the city special mechanisms for urban governance, innovation and digital transformation.
These policies allow Da Nang to pilot new technological solutions through regulatory sandbox models and attract strategic investors in emerging sectors.
At the same time, the city is investing heavily in digital infrastructure. Major projects include the completion of Software Park No. 2, the development of international-scale Internet Data Centers (IDCs), expansion of submarine fiber-optic cable infrastructure and the establishment of advanced digital ecosystems designed to support AI development.
Da Nang will seize the opportunities created by the AI wave to become a pioneering AI City, leading not only Central Vietnam but also the wider region.
We are committed to creating the best possible environment for technology enterprises and international experts, working together to turn innovation, growth and development ambitions into reality.
Vice Chairman of the Da Nang People’s Committee Ho Quang Buu
AI City vision drives innovation and global investment
By 2030, Da Nang’s AI City vision is expected to serve as a powerful magnet for global technology investment and highly skilled professionals.
The city is committed to building a transparent, business-friendly environment while leveraging digital governance to streamline services and support enterprise growth.
Beyond AI, Da Nang is seeking opportunities in a range of emerging industries, including fintech, digital assets, quantum technology, biotechnology and low-altitude economy applications.
The city hopes to attract around 10 digital technology enterprises with annual revenues exceeding US$1 billion in the coming years.
Officials have also called for broader national policies to support the development of the data economy, including expanded regulatory sandbox programs and more flexible visa policies aimed at attracting international professionals and digital nomads to Vietnam, and Da Nang in particular.
With a clear roadmap and growing momentum, Da Nang is positioning itself not only as a tourism destination, but also as one of Southeast Asia’s emerging centers for digital innovation and future growth.