S3Corp. Tech Blog

Nvidia Corp., a leading name in artificial intelligence and computing technology, has announced plans to establish an advanced AI research and development center in Vietnam. This decision underscores the company’s intention to expand its influence in Southeast Asia, a region that is rapidly emerging as a focal point for technological investments. The initiative was formalized during a signing ceremony held in Hanoi, where Nvidia’s founder and CEO Jensen Huang met with Vietnam’s Investment Minister Nguyen Chi Dung. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh also attended the event, emphasizing its national importance.

The establishment of this AI center is a significant milestone for Vietnam’s technological aspirations. Nvidia’s collaboration with Viettel Group, which will utilize Nvidia technology for its data center, further highlights the growing synergy between global tech leaders and Vietnamese enterprises. These developments are expected to accelerate AI innovation within Vietnam while setting a benchmark for other Southeast Asian nations.

Nvidia’s Commitment to Advancing AI in Vietnam

Jensen Huang outlined Nvidia’s vision for Vietnam during the briefing, emphasizing a multi-faceted approach to AI development. Nvidia plans to construct robust AI infrastructure, enhance the expertise of local AI professionals, and support emerging AI-focused startups. By integrating these components, Nvidia seeks to position Vietnam as a competitive player in the global AI landscape.

One of the pivotal moves in this initiative is Nvidia’s acquisition of VinBrain, the AI division of Vingroup JSC. VinBrain is recognized for its groundbreaking work in applying artificial intelligence to healthcare, particularly in diagnostics and medical imaging. According to Huang, this acquisition will serve as the foundation for a future design center dedicated to advanced AI solutions. Although Nvidia has not disclosed the valuation of this acquisition, the strategic importance of integrating VinBrain’s capabilities into its portfolio is clear.

Expanding Nvidia’s Footprint in Southeast Asia

Nvidia’s decision to establish an AI center in Vietnam is part of a broader strategy to expand its presence across Southeast Asia. Prior to his visit to Hanoi, Jensen Huang met with Thailand’s Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra to discuss opportunities for collaboration. This included plans to develop AI infrastructure in Thailand, highlighting Nvidia’s commitment to fostering technological advancement across multiple nations in the region.

The competition among Southeast Asian countries to attract big tech investments is intensifying. Countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Thailand are vying to become hubs for data centers and AI development. For example, Damac Group, backed by billionaire developer Hussain Sajwani, has announced plans to invest $3 billion to construct data centers across these nations. Vietnam’s proactive approach in partnering with Nvidia signifies its ambition to secure a leading position in this competitive landscape.

Vietnam’s National Strategy for AI and Semiconductors

Vietnam has outlined an ambitious roadmap to capitalize on the global tech boom. By 2050, the government aims to achieve annual revenue exceeding $100 billion from the semiconductor industry. In line with this vision, Vietnam plans to establish three large-scale data centers and three AI hubs by 2030. Nvidia’s involvement aligns seamlessly with these objectives, potentially accelerating the country’s journey toward becoming a global tech powerhouse.

In 2021, Vietnam introduced a national strategy emphasizing the importance of data as a resource for economic and social transformation. Jensen Huang echoed this sentiment, stating that data should be regarded as a nation’s natural resource. He emphasized the importance of Vietnam processing its own data to create AI solutions tailored to its unique societal and industrial needs. This perspective reinforces the critical role of localized data processing in fostering sustainable growth and innovation.

Implications for Vietnam’s Tech Ecosystem

Nvidia’s initiatives are expected to have a cascading effect on Vietnam’s broader tech ecosystem. By equipping local talent with advanced AI knowledge and resources, the company is fostering a new generation of innovators. This move could attract more global enterprises to invest in Vietnam’s burgeoning tech sector, creating a virtuous cycle of growth and development.

Nvidia’s AI infrastructure could support advanced solutions in software development, enhancing the competitiveness of local companies on the global stage. Furthermore, the focus on AI startups aligns with Vietnam’s efforts to position itself as a hub for cutting-edge technology, providing platforms for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Conclusion

Nvidia’s decision to establish an AI center in Vietnam is a landmark development for the country and the broader Southeast Asian region. By combining advanced infrastructure, strategic acquisitions, and a commitment to local talent development, Nvidia is paving the way for a new era of technological growth in Vietnam. As the country continues to implement its ambitious tech strategies, partnerships with global leaders like Nvidia will play a crucial role in shaping its future. This collaboration is more than just a business endeavor; it represents a significant step toward Vietnam’s emergence as a global technology hub.