VC funds to shape a wave of innovation

International venture capital funds are expected to approach new opportunities in Vietnam’s innovation ecosystem, shaping the next wave of growth in the innovation economy.

- By Tung Anh

Malaysiaand Hong Kong-based venture capital firm Gobi Partners is seeking to invest in Vietnam, including through the country’s newly established national venture capital fund, as the country steps up efforts to channel more capital into strategic technology sectors.

In late March, Gobi Partners made proposals during a meeting in Hanoi with the Vietnamese Ministry of Science and Technology, where the two sides discussed possible cooperation in startup incubation, semiconductors, AI, big data, new energy, and regulatory sandboxes for robots and unmanned aerial vehicles.

Gobi also expressed interest in participating in venture capital development initiatives in Vietnam, including proposals related to the National Venture Capital Fund. The fund’s representatives mentioned the possibility of connecting some of its portfolio companies with the Vietnamese market, particularly in high-tech sectors.

The ministry said that Vietnam identifies the development of high-tech industries as crucial drivers for economic growth. The country is focusing on building a semiconductor ecosystem, the application of AI in production and daily life, and simultaneously improving policies to attract investment and develop high-quality workers.