World Bank praises Vietnam’s policy focus on digital technology

Ousmane Dione, the World Bank’s chief in Vietnam, has said he is encouraged by an increased focus of the Vietnamese government’s policies on disruptive technology and digital economy.

World Bank Country Director for Vietnam Ousmane Dione (Photo: VNA)
World Bank Country Director for Vietnam Ousmane Dione (Photo: VNA)

The remark was made at a workshop on how to accelerate development of the digital economy, which was jointly held by the Ministry of Industry and Trade and the World Bank on March 7.

The workshop gathered experts and government officials to discuss the impacts of digital technology on the economy as well as its challenges and opportunities.

The speakers also shared experience in supporting small and medium-sized enterprises in maximising the benefits of the digital technology, such as e-commerce and financial technology (fintech).

According to the World Bank official, disruptive technologies are already present in Vietnam, citing a fast-growing ride-haling market, the growth of e-commerce platforms and digital accommodation platforms and the rising role of fintech and payment solution companies.

He said Vietnam’s vibrant digital economy holds the promise for more micro, small and medium enterprises to participate in the economy, while the sharing economy has made it easier for the average Vietnamese to participate in the digital economy to make an extra income.

Mr Dione suggested that governments need to lead by example and become more digital themselves, adding that the World Bank is already supporting the Vietnamese government in a number of areas to leverage digital technologies for administrative reform.