Delegates at the inauguration ceremony for Qualcomm’s new artificial intelligence research & development (AI R&D) center in Vietnam’s capital, Hanoi, June 9, 2025. Photo: Thanh Ha / Tuoi Tre
On June 9, 2025, Vietnam welcomed a significant milestone in its technological landscape with the inauguration of Qualcomm’s new artificial intelligence research and development (AI R&D) center in Hanoi. This event was not just ceremonial; it symbolized a burgeoning partnership between the U.S. tech giant and Vietnam, emphasizing the country’s potential in the tech sphere.
Deputy Minister of Science and Technology, Le Xuan Dinh, underscored Qualcomm’s investment as a mark of confidence in Vietnam’s information technology workforce. By establishing an R&D center, Qualcomm recognizes the exceptional talent available in Vietnam, which aligns with the nation’s strategic goals in technology and innovation.
The new facility, led by Dr. An Mei Chen, Qualcomm’s vice-president of engineering, is set to become a beacon for innovation. It will not only focus on cutting-edge research but also on developing platforms that will foster local talent and strengthen academic partnerships. This holistic approach demonstrates Qualcomm’s commitment to nurturing the region’s technical capabilities.
Importantly, the new AI R&D center aims to directly impact Qualcomm’s global product roadmap. By engaging local researchers and technologists, the center will facilitate advancements in Vietnam’s AI landscape and contribute significantly to its technology sector.
Qualcomm’s strategic alignment with Vietnam’s national frameworks on AI, semiconductors, and digital transformation exhibits thoughtful foresight. The company’s plans emphasize critical aspects such as technology transfer, ecosystem development, and capacity building, highlighting a mutually beneficial relationship. Dr. Chen noted how this investment will support Vietnam’s national priorities in digital transformation, positioning the country as a competitive player in the global tech industry.
The Vietnamese government is actively building a public-private ecosystem to expedite its digital transformation journey, focusing on upskilling its workforce and enhancing innovation capacities. Qualcomm’s involvement comes at a crucial time, offering not only resources but also the expertise of leading professionals in AI. This collaboration will empower Vietnamese researchers to craft innovative solutions that address both local and global challenges.
Since its entry into the Vietnamese market in 2003, Qualcomm has established two offices in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City. The 2020 launch of its first R&D center in Southeast Asia, focusing on 5G technology, set the stage for this latest development. The expansion into AI signifies a broader commitment to Vietnam’s technological growth.
