Vietnam's fast-growing tech sector is set to enter a dynamic new phase of cross-border innovation after GITEX, the world's largest and most acclaimed tech event brand, officially announced its entry into the Vietnamese market.
The inaugural GITEX VIETNAM will take place in Hanoi on 1-2 October 2026 and is organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and KAOUN International in partnership with Vietnam's National Innovation Centre (NIC). This landmark event, organised by the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI), will be the cornerstone of Vietnam's National Innovation Week. It also marks an important step towards achieving Vietnam's ambitious goal of building a $200bn digital economy by 2030.
With its legacy of breaking new ground, GITEX offers unparalleled opportunities for emerging markets, investment capital, global talent and strategic partnerships - advantages that only a globally recognised platform can provide. In its 45 years of existence, GITEX has become synonymous with international expansion and now hosts events in seven countries and four global regions: Currently, GITEX hosts events in seven countries and four global regions: Germany, Morocco, Nigeria, Singapore, Thailand, the UAE and now Vietnam.
The announcement, made at GITEX ASIA x Ai Everything Singapore at the Marina Bay Sands Hotel, comes after Vietnam and the UAE jointly announced their intention to explore a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), marking a new phase in strengthening bilateral economic and trade co-operation.
A defining moment for Southeast Asia's digital future
As GITEX's expansive global network continues to foster transformative connections, the debut of GITEX VIETNAM will highlight the country's immense potential for innovation. The event aims to attract international investors, enable new partnerships, and put Vietnam's technology ecosystem on the global stage. The showcase will unite tech giants, startups, policymakers, investors and thought leaders to discuss cutting-edge trends such as artificial intelligence, semiconductors, Industry 5.0, DevOps, cybersecurity, IoT and talent development.
Celebrating the milestone, Trixie LohMirmand, Executive Vice President of DWTC and CEO of KAOUN International, said:
"The launch of GITEX VIETNAM marks a pivotal moment in Vietnam's digital transformation journey and the broader rise of emerging economies in Southeast Asia. This platform will showcase Vietnam's achievements, progressive policies, talent and evolving digital infrastructure. It will bring a wave of collaboration opportunities for governments and the private sector globally. We are excited to elevate Southeast Asia's vibrant tech ecosystems - which are often underrepresented on the global stage - and bring them into the international spotlight. The global tech community is in for an exciting discovery."
Kim Ngoc Thanh Nga, Deputy Director of the Vietnam National Innovation Centre, said:
"The announcement of GITEX in Vietnam is a landmark moment in our country's tech, innovation and digital investment landscape and a defining milestone for Southeast Asia. With its legacy of bridging the digital divide and shaping the global tech narrative, GITEX's expansion in Vietnam will be a powerful engine for local, regional and international socio-economic progress. We are seizing an extraordinary opportunity to build a future rooted in innovation, collaboration and global integration."
Jalil Rasheed, Managing Director, Asia Pacific, Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI), adds:
"The collaboration between DWTC, KAOUN International and NIC has been critical in connecting Vietnam to the global innovation ecosystem through GITEX, and TBI is honoured to play a catalytic role in this partnership, which underscores our commitment to leveraging technology for impactful and sustainable outcomes. This partnership is not only critical for emerging economies like Vietnam, but also plays an important role in strengthening the bilateral relationship between Vietnam and the UAE."
Vietnam: the next major destination for tech, startups and investment in Southeast Asia
Vietnam is fast becoming a central player in Southeast Asia's digital rise - a vibrant tech hub and a growing force in the global supply chain.
Vietnam ranks second and fifth globally in smartphone and computer exports, respectively, and the semiconductor industry alone is set to export more than $18 billion by 2024 (SEMI). Vietnam's manufacturing and construction sectors are also vital to the country's economic growth, employing more than 17.4 million people, or 33.4 per cent of the country's total employment (GSO).
Vietnam's forward-looking National Strategy for the Development of Digital Economy and Digital Society aims to make Vietnam a regional centre for information technology and cyber security by 2030. Key areas of focus include artificial intelligence infrastructure, cyber security, high-speed internet, green data centres and IT zones.
Looking ahead, Kim Ngoc Thanh Nga added:
"We are excited about the enormous potential that Infocomm Vietnam offers as a unique platform for meaningful dialogue, strategic partnerships and joint investment opportunities. It will enable us to deepen global collaboration and explore the transformative impact of emerging technologies.GITEX VIETNAM will be the premier meeting place for the tech community, startups and the investment community to shape the future of the AI-powered digital economy."
Ministry of Commerce of the People's Republic of China 