Vietnam and Australia are seeking a new phase of strategic cooperation focused on science, technology and innovation. The two sides are considering joint research, investment, R&D centres and collaboration in AI, semiconductors, quantum technology, clean energy and strategic minerals.
Vietnam and Australia are looking to develop a deeper strategic partnership centred on science, technology, innovation and high-quality human resources. The proposal was highlighted by Vietnam’s Party General Secretary and State President To Lam at the Vietnam-Australia Techconnect Forum in Sydney on August 10 during his state visit to Australia.
Lam said science, technology and innovation are becoming essential to Vietnam’s ambition of becoming a developed, high-income country by 2045. He called for a shift from traditional technology transfer towards joint research, co-development and technology creation, supported by stronger links between businesses, universities, research institutions and investment funds.
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The Vietnamese leader proposed developing a long-term strategy for science, technology and innovation as a new pillar of the Vietnam-Australia Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. Priority areas identified for joint research include artificial intelligence, semiconductors, digital technology, biotechnology, quantum technology, clean energy, strategic minerals and the marine economy.
Both countries are also expected to explore greater two-way investment in high-tech industries, including the establishment of R&D centres, joint laboratories, business incubation programmes and commercially focused innovation projects. Vietnam has also encouraged Australian investment in areas such as green finance, digital infrastructure, data and innovation centres.
Human-resource development is another proposed area of cooperation. The two sides are seeking stronger exchanges involving students, postgraduate researchers, scientists, engineers and technology specialists, while connecting academic training more closely with industry requirements.
Vietnamese Minister of Science and Technology Vu Hai Quan called for cooperation to cover the full research-to-market cycle, from identifying business needs and testing technologies to commercialisation. He also proposed joint research teams and laboratories that would allow scientists to work directly with companies.
Australian Assistant Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade and Assistant Minister for Immigration Matt Thistlethwaite said science and technology are central to economic development and highlighted the potential for cooperation under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and Australia’s Southeast Asia Economic Strategy to 2040.
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The forum also produced new business initiatives. Vietjet Air signed a cooperation agreement with Western Sydney International Airport and announced plans for a direct Ho Chi Minh City-Western Sydney route from January 2027, which is expected to support trade, investment, tourism and people-to-people exchanges.
The proposed initiatives could give Vietnam-Australia relations a stronger technology and innovation focus while creating opportunities for joint investment, research and commercialisation across strategic industries.