Vietnam’s rapidly growing tech landscape is set to enter a dynamic new phase of cross-border innovation, following the official announcement that GITEX — the world’s largest and most acclaimed tech event brand — is expanding into the Vietnamese market.
Organised by the Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) and KAOUN International in collaboration with the Vietnam National Innovation Centre (NIC), the inaugural GITEX VIETNAM will take place in Hanoi from October 1-2, 2026. This landmark event is facilitated by the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI) and will serve as a cornerstone of Vietnam’s National Innovation Week. It also marks a significant step toward realising the country’s ambitions of building a US$200 billion digital economy by 2030.
With its legacy of opening new frontiers, GITEX offers unmatched access to emerging markets, investment capital, global talent, and strategic partnerships — advantages only a globally recognised platform can provide. Over its 45-year journey, GITEX has become synonymous with international expansion, now hosting events across seven countries and four global regions: Germany, Morocco, Nigeria, Singapore, Thailand, the UAE, and now Vietnam.
The announcement was made during GITEX ASIA x Ai Everything Singapore, held at Marina Bay Sands, and comes in the wake of a joint declaration of intent between Vietnam and the UAE to explore a Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), signalling a new phase of strengthened bilateral trade and economic cooperation.
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 spotlight the country’s vast innovation potential. The event aims to attract international investors, spark new partnerships, and position Vietnam’s tech ecosystem on a global stage. The showcase will unite tech giants, startups, policymakers, investors, and thought leaders to explore cutting-edge trends including AI, 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, stated:
“The launch of GITEX VIETNAM marks a pivotal moment in Vietnam’s digital transformation journey and the broader rise of Southeast Asia’s emerging economies. This platform will shine a light on the country’s achievements, progressive policies, talent, and evolving digital infrastructure. It will open up a wave of collaborative business opportunities across government and private sectors globally. We’re excited to elevate Southeast Asia’s dynamic tech ecosystems — 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 Center, remarked:
“The announcement of GITEX’s arrival in Vietnam is a landmark moment for our nation’s technology, innovation, and digital investment landscape — and a defining milestone for Southeast Asia. With its legacy of bridging digital divides and shaping global tech narratives, GITEX’s expansion into Vietnam will act as a powerful engine for socio-economic progress at local, regional, and international levels. We are seizing an extraordinary opportunity to build a future rooted in innovation, collaboration, and global integration.”
Jalil Rasheed, Managing Director for Asia Pacific at the Tony Blair Institute for Global Change (TBI), added:
“The collaboration between DWTC, KAOUN International, and NIC is pivotal in linking Vietnam to the global innovation ecosystem through GITEX. TBI is proud to have played a facilitating role in this partnership, underlining our commitment to leveraging technology for impactful and sustainable outcomes. This partnership is not only critical for emerging economies like Vietnam but also plays a vital role in strengthening Vietnam–UAE bilateral relations.”
Vietnam: Southeast Asia’s Next Premier Destination for Tech, Startups & Investment
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.
Ranked second and fifth globally in smartphone and computer exports, respectively, Vietnam’s semiconductor industry alone surpassed US$18 billion in 2024 (SEMI)[1]. The country’s manufacturing and construction sectors are also critical to national growth, employing over 17.4 million people and accounting for 33.4% of total national employment (GSO)[2].
Vietnam’s forward-looking National Strategy on Digital Economy and Digital Society Development aims to position the country as a regional hub for IT and network security by 2030. Key focus areas include AI infrastructure, cybersecurity, high-speed internet, green data centres, and specialised IT zones.
Looking to the future, Kim Ngoc Thanh Nga added:
“We are excited by the immense potential that GITEX VIETNAM brings — a unique platform for meaningful dialogue, strategic partnerships, and co-investment opportunities. It will allow us to deepen global collaboration and explore the transformative impact of emerging technologies. GITEX VIETNAM will serve as a premier meeting ground for the tech, startup, and investment communities to shape the AI-powered digital economy of tomorrow.”
