Vietnam is set to host its first edition of GITEX, the world’s largest and highest-rated tech exhibition, in a move expected to boost its digital economy and global innovation standing. The event, GITEX VIETNAM, will take place in Hanoi from 1–2 October 2026 and is positioned to be a key driver in the country’s ambition to build a US$200 billion digital economy by 2030.
The launch was officially announced on 24 April during GITEX ASIA x Ai Everything Singapore, held at Marina Bay Sands. Organised by Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and its international events arm KAOUN International, the Vietnamese debut is being held in collaboration with the Vietnam National Innovation Center (NIC) and supported by the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI).
This expansion marks the latest milestone in GITEX’s 45-year legacy, which now spans seven countries and four regions, including Germany, Morocco, Nigeria, Singapore, Thailand, the UAE, and soon, Vietnam. It also follows a recent joint declaration between Vietnam and the UAE to begin discussions on a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), signalling broader economic cooperation.
New platform to showcase Southeast Asia’s innovation potential
The inaugural GITEX VIETNAM is set to serve as an anchor event for Vietnam’s National Innovation Week, spotlighting the country’s emerging role as a regional innovation hub. It will bring together global tech firms, investors, startups, policymakers, and thought leaders to explore major trends including AI, semiconductors, cybersecurity, Industry 5.0, and talent acceleration.
Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President of DWTC and CEO of KAOUN International, described the expansion as a pivotal opportunity for Vietnam and the broader Southeast Asian region. “The inaugural GITEX VIETNAM shall represent a watershed in the digital transition of Vietnam and the rising Southeast Asia emerging economies. GITEX shall spotlight and amplify the accomplishments, forward policies, talents, developing infrastructure, and growing aspirations of a steadfast and ambitious young economy to the rest of the world,” she said. LohMirmand added that the platform will help elevate underrepresented regional tech ecosystems to global visibility.
Kim Ngoc Thanh Nga, Deputy Director of the Vietnam National Innovation Center, echoed this sentiment, calling the announcement “a defining moment for Southeast Asia.” She said, “With its legacy of bridging digital divides and shaping global tech narratives, GITEX’s expansion into Vietnam will undoubtedly serve as a powerful catalyst for socio-economic advancement at local, regional, and international levels.”
Vietnam’s rising role in global tech and manufacturing
Vietnam’s growing stature in the global tech economy is underpinned by robust export figures and an active push in strategic sectors. The country is currently the world’s second-largest exporter of smartphones and ranks fifth for computer exports. The local semiconductor industry surpassed US$18 billion in 2024, according to SEMI, while manufacturing and construction collectively employ 17.4 million people and contribute 33.4% of national employment, based on General Statistics Office data.
The Vietnamese government’s National Strategy on Digital Economy and Digital Society Development aims to make the country a leading regional hub for IT and cybersecurity by 2030. Planned developments include AI infrastructure, green data centres, high-speed connectivity, and dedicated IT parks.
TBI Managing Director for Asia Pacific, Jalil Rasheed, noted the importance of this collaboration in fostering global connections: “The partnership between DWTC/KAOUN International and NIC is pivotal in bridging the global innovation ecosystem with Vietnam through GITEX. TBI is proud to have facilitated this collaboration, highlighting our commitment to leverage technology for impactful results.”
Looking ahead, NIC’s Kim Ngoc Thanh Nga said the event would foster deeper international collaboration: “We are thrilled by the prospect of staging meaningful conversations, forging new partnerships, showcasing co-investment opportunities, and deepening the understanding of emerging technologies alongside our global partners and friends.”
