Da Nang (VNA) – Based on its e-administration infrastructure, the central city of Da Nang is fast-tracking the integration of advanced technologies in public administration and digital economy development.
With the launching of its two-tier local administration model, the city is incorporating technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and blockchain to enhance service delivery for citizens and businesses, aligning with the Politburo’s Resolution 57-NQ/TW on breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation.
From testing ground to digital governance pioneer
Da Nang has become a leader in applying technology to public administrative management. AI and blockchain, once viewed as futuristic, are now central to reshaping administrative systems – streamlining processes, reducing paperwork, improving services, and enhancing transparency through real-time, data-driven decisions.
In support of this, the Prime Minister approved Decision No. 1236/QD-TTg for a national blockchain strategy through 2025, with a 2030 vision. This framework enables cities like Da Nang to build blockchain ecosystems, particularly for digital assets and land management.
According to Nguyen Hoai Tuong, Director of the Big Data and AI Centre, blockchain strengthens data security and transparency while opening new avenues for managing public services. Pilot models, especially sandbox testing, are the key to realising this potential, he held.
The city increasingly uses data dashboards and alert systems to guide governance, tracking key indicators like pending administrative procedures, public feedback, and weather data, boosting responsiveness at ward and commune levels.
Da Nang’s public service hotline 1022 now includes an AI-powered chatbot, available round the clock across Facebook Messenger, Zalo, and the hotline website. The city’s Intelligent Operations Centre (IOC) further decentralises data access, supporting real-time decisions. IOC Director Nguyen Van Quoc noted that the centre issues deadline alerts and notifies relevant ward-level leaders, ensuring timely service delivery and improving citizen satisfaction.
Da Nang has built one of Vietnam’s most integrated digital infrastructures. This foundation enables widespread AI and blockchain applications in urban management, infrastructure, land use, and public services.
Le Son Phong, Deputy Director of the municipal Department of Science and Technology, stated that digital transformation is not only a trend but also a driver of economic growth, government modernisation, and quality of life.
Online administrative services now make up nearly 60% of total procedures, with nearly 50% of adults holding digital citizen IDs. The IOC is central to delivering data-driven governance.
Digital economy, e-commerce development in line with regional connectivity
Information and communication technology is one of Da Nang’s five key economic sectors. In 2024, the city’s ICT industry earned 39.88 trillion VND (1.52 billion USD). With 2,556 digital enterprises – 2.35 per 1,000 residents, nearly triple the national average, and a tech workforce of 57,000 (7.7% of the labour force vs. the national average of 2.7%), Da Nang is well ahead.
Vice Chairman of the municipal People’s Committee Ho Quang Buu reported the digital economy contributed 20.96% to Da Nang’s GRDP in 2023 (national average is 16.5%) and is expected to reach 22% in 2024 (national average is 18.3%). The city aims for 35-40% by 2030, surpassing Resolution 57’s 30% target, he said.
Digital integration across sectors is driving growth and shifting Da Nang toward a digital-first economy. Local tech companies are becoming more self-reliant, creating “Made in Da Nang” platforms and applications.
Tran Quoc Chinh, CEO of CMC Cyber Security, highlighted the city’s strengths in chip manufacturing and data application. He said that the firm aims to establish a data centre in Da Nang to support digital economic growth.
With its central location, modern logistics, and e-administration base, Da Nang attracts e-commerce and digital businesses. From 2023-2025, regional e-commerce integration has advanced through training, platform development, and partnerships, creating a vibrant digital commerce ecosystem.
Le Hoang Oanh, Director of the Ministry of Industry and Trade’s Department of E-commerce and Digital Economy, praised Da Nang as a regional pioneer. The city’s proactive transformation has built a strong foundation for a connected, sustainable digital economy, the official commented.
From 2026-2030, the ministry plans to enhance regional e-commerce links by improving infrastructure, policies, skills, and collaboration across local administrations, businesses, and service providers, with Da Nang expected to remain a key hub.
Under Resolution 57, Da Nang has defined 51 development goals. By 2050, it aims for the digital economy to contribute at least 60% of GRDP, higher than the target of 50% set by the resolution, and to foster at least three global-level digital enterprises. The city also targets attracting one top-tier international tech corporation to invest in local R&D and production.
This roadmap positions science, technology, and digital transformation as growth pillars. Fully digitised administration operations and services will cement Da Nang’s place as a leading innovation and tech hub in Vietnam and Southeast Asia./.
VNA
