Vietnam Accelerates Its Push to Become a Major Player in Quantum Technology

VoS NEWS DESK | SCIENCE & TECHNOLOGY | 1 September 2026

Vietnam is increasingly treating quantum technology as a national strategic priority, rather than simply an academic field. Government and scientific leaders have highlighted its potential importance for computing, cybersecurity, communications, advanced sensing and national technological sovereignty.

The country's strategy covers several areas of the rapidly developing technology. These include quantum communication, quantum computing and quantum sensing, all of which have been identified by the Vietnamese government as strategic technologies capable of creating future economic and technological advantages.

Vietnam's scientific institutions are also attempting to move quantum research beyond theoretical work and towards practical applications. In June, the Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology and Vietnam National University Ho Chi Minh City organised a national workshop examining international developments, opportunities and the requirements for developing Vietnam's quantum capabilities.

Researchers and policymakers argue that Vietnam needs to develop an entire quantum ecosystem rather than concentrating on laboratories alone. This includes skilled researchers, specialised infrastructure, businesses, international partnerships and the ability to develop and eventually commercialise quantum technologies.

Quantum computing is attracting particular attention because it could eventually solve certain complex problems far more efficiently than conventional computers. Potential applications include advanced scientific simulation, optimisation, cryptography and drug and materials research.

Quantum communication and security are also strategic priorities for Vietnam. Officials have linked the development of these technologies with national security, artificial intelligence, semiconductors and digital sovereignty.

Vietnam's priorities also extend to quantum sensing and metrology, quantum materials, algorithms and software, alongside the development of specialised human resources capable of supporting the sector.

The push comes as countries around the world compete to establish positions in what is increasingly viewed as the next major technological frontier. Governments are investing in quantum research because leadership in the field could eventually influence computing power, communications security, industrial competitiveness and defence capabilities.

Vietnam's challenge will be turning strategic ambition into a sustainable domestic ecosystem. That requires long-term investment, highly trained scientists and engineers, access to advanced equipment and stronger links between universities, research institutions and industry.

International cooperation is expected to play an important role. Vietnam is seeking partnerships that can provide access to expertise, research networks and advanced facilities while helping its domestic institutions develop independent capabilities.

VoS STRATEGIC INSIGHT

Vietnam's quantum push reflects a broader shift in global technology competition. Just as artificial intelligence and semiconductors have become strategic industries, quantum technology is increasingly being treated as an area where early investment could determine future technological influence.

For Vietnam, the objective is not simply to participate in quantum research but to develop capabilities across computing, communication, sensing, security, software and specialised materials.

The country's success will depend on whether it can translate government strategy and academic research into practical technologies, skilled talent and commercially viable industries.

Source: Vietnam Academy of Science and Technology / Vietnam Government Portal / Nhan Dan / VoS News Desk