 Jonathan Saw, Australia’s Trade and Investment Commissioner in Vietnam, delivers the opening speech. (Photo credit: Austrade) |
The Australia-Vietnam Smart Cities Business Forum 2025, part of Smart City Asia 2025, also marked a milestone in strengthening the bilateral relationship, especially in the digital economy and following the elevation of the two countries’ diplomatic ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership last year.
The forum's discussions and outcomes are grounded in the insights derived from the Smart City Focus Group - Vietnam Market Deep-Dive, conducted last month, in Ho Chi Minh City.
 Speakers in the panel discussion on opportunities and challenges. (Photo credit: Austrade) |
In his opening remarks, Jonathan Saw, Trade and Investment Commissioner for Vietnam, spotlighted the growing importance of cooperation in the digital economy.
"Austrade Vietnam's Landing Pad initiative is designed to introduce Australian innovation to Southeast Asia and accelerate digital transformation. We are supporting Australian businesses in forming partnerships with Vietnamese enterprises, government bodies, and institutions to co-develop solutions tailored to local needs," Saw said.
He added that the participation of 13 Australian companies at the forum underscores Australia’s digital innovation capabilities and its commitment to long-term collaboration.