Ho Chi Minh City, October 29, 2026 — As part of the ongoing Autumn Economic Forum 2026 (AEF 2026), a high-level delegation of international delegates embarked on a comprehensive field trip to the Northern Science and Technology Urban Area, located in Binh Duong ward, Ho Chi Minh City. This immersive tour was specifically designed to bridge global investors with local industrial and technological hubs, offering firsthand exposure to Ho Chi Minh City’s rapidly evolving investment climate, smart manufacturing ecosystems, and forward-thinking urban development strategies.
The high-profile delegation brought together a diverse group of global policymakers, industry leaders, and institutional representatives. Among the prominent participants were delegates from the Republic of Korea’s 6th Industrial Revolution Center, the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) mission in Vietnam, local government officials from Hyogo Prefecture, Japan, and members of the Global Shapers community. They were accompanied by top executives from leading domestic and multinational technology enterprises seeking strategic partnerships in Southeast Asia.
Understanding the Model of Industry, Urbanization, and Services
The Northern Science and Technology Urban Area stands as a pioneering model integrating industrial growth, modern urbanization, and high-value services. Developed by the Investment and Industrial Development Corporation (Becamex), the urban area is strategically aligned with Vietnam’s broader national goals of digital transformation, green transition, and innovation-driven growth. According to the organizing committee of AEF 2026, this region serves as the nucleus for smart manufacturing ecosystems, high-tech infrastructure, and sustainable development within the country’s key southern economic zone.
The itinerary commenced at the WTC Tower, a landmark facility housing the Smart Operations Center (IOC). Here, international delegates received a detailed briefing on the centralized digital governance system utilized to monitor and manage urban operations, administrative procedures at the Binh Duong Administrative Center, and large-scale convention and exhibition facilities. Urban planners outlined the vision to transform this strategic corridor into an advanced Science and Technology Park, cementing Ho Chi Minh City’s position as a regional hub for high-tech industries.
Following the briefing at the WTC Tower, the delegation explored key nodes within the local academic and industrial ecosystem. Stops included the centralized High-Tech Industrial Park and the Eastern International University (EIU). At EIU, delegates visited the Sustainable Development Center, the VSIIC (Vietnam-Singapore Industry 4.0 Innovation Center), and the Advanced Manufacturing Center (AMC). These facilities demonstrated the region’s commitment to workforce development, advanced research, and technology transfer, providing a tangible look at how local institutions collaborate with global enterprises to foster cutting-edge capabilities.
Perspectives from Global Innovators and Investors
The field trip elicited overwhelmingly positive responses from the international business community. Speaking with reporters, Mr. Hyucksoon Im, founder of PYLONEER—a firm specializing in AI-integrated IoT systems for monitoring electric vehicle operations—shared insights regarding his participation. Having attended the high-level policy discussions at AEF 2026 earlier in the week, Mr. Im expressed astonishment at the level of integration and maturity within ASEAN’s localized economic ecosystems.
"My primary objective for this visit was to tour Becamex’s industrial facilities and showcase our proprietary IoT solutions," Mr. Im stated. "However, experiencing these forums firsthand has opened my eyes to the deep economic linkages and collaborative ecosystems being built across ASEAN nations. This trip has given me a fresh perspective on expanding business operations into Southeast Asian markets, with Vietnam standing out as a prime destination."
Mr. Im further emphasized that Vietnam represents a high-potential market teeming with opportunities for emerging technology startups. He noted that the country’s proactive approach to infrastructure development and industrial modernization makes it an attractive launchpad for foreign enterprises seeking reliable partners and sustainable long-term growth.
Complementary Cultural and Regional Tours
In addition to the core technology and urban planning tour, AEF 2026 organizers curated alternative cultural excursions for international delegates. Participants were given the option to choose between specialized tours highlighting either the local culinary heritage or the traditional ceramic craftsmanship deeply rooted in the region’s cultural identity. These parallel programs ensured that global visitors gained a holistic appreciation of Ho Chi Minh City, balancing high-tech industrial advancements with rich cultural immersion.
The successful execution of the AEF 2026 field trips underscores Ho Chi Minh City’s growing appeal as an international investment destination. By seamlessly combining smart infrastructure, academic excellence, and robust industrial ecosystems, the city continues to demonstrate its readiness to host global capital, foster high-tech innovation, and lead the charge toward sustainable regional development.
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