Accelerating Robotics Adoption in Vietnam: Challenges and Opportunities
Robotics and Mechatronics Conference in Hanoi
The Ministry of Industry and Trade, in collaboration with the Ministry of Science and Technology and the Ministry of Planning and Investment, organized a conference on robotics and mechatronics technology in the context of Industry 4.0 in Hanoi. The event took place on Tuesday and was part of the "Connecting Vietnam Innovation Network 2018" program, held from August 18 to 24 in various cities, including Hanoi, Quang Ninh, Ho Chi Minh City, and Ba Ria-Vung Tau
Challenges and Opportunities for Vietnamese Enterprises
A report by the Ministry of Industry and Trade revealed that the number of Vietnamese enterprises investing in and applying Industry 4.0 technologies remains modest. Although there is a significant need, many businesses lack the necessary resources and strategic orientation. Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Cao Quoc Hung emphasized the importance of specific and appropriate steps to ensure successful adoption of robotics and mechatronics technologies.
Conference Highlights
The conference brought together hundreds of Vietnamese technology experts and scientists from around the world. They shared their visions and strategies with governmental agencies, enterprises, and organizations on how to leverage the achievements of the fourth industrial revolution for economic development. With over 97% of Vietnamese enterprises being small and medium-sized, firms face challenges in capital, technology, human resources, and innovation capacity.
Collaborative Efforts and Strategic Steps
Deputy Minister Hung suggested establishing a cooperation network between foreign experts and domestic universities and research institutes for research projects. Collaboration with local universities for training, compiling textbooks, and attending scientific seminars was also highlighted. Additionally, partnerships with technology enterprises and science organizations are crucial to support Vietnamese firms in renewing production technology and creating new products.
Make it stand out
Technological Advancements and Applications
Dr. Hoang Viet Hong, deputy general director of Industrial Machinery and Instruments Holding, discussed the benefits of robotic and automation technology in increasing productivity. However, he acknowledged the challenges related to human resources, investment capital, and technical expertise. He stressed the need for closer cooperation between foreign and domestic experts to bring new technology and automation into Vietnam's production processes.
Potential Applications of Robotic Technology
Associate Prof. Ho Anh Van from the Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology highlighted various applications of robotic technology beyond industrial production. Soft robots can be used in agriculture, fruit picking, medical care, elderly care, and surgery. He noted the limited current applications in Vietnam and expressed hope for broader use in the future through training and experiments involving Vietnamese students and researchers.
Industry 4.0 Trends and Future Prospects
Vietnamese factories are focusing on researching and testing new technologies to optimize manufacturing capacity and improve efficiency. This is expected to bring new opportunities for Vietnam's outsourcing manufacturing sector and enhance its competitive advantages compared to other countries.
The robotics and mechatronics technology conference highlighted the potential and challenges of adopting Industry 4.0 technologies in Vietnam. Through collaborative efforts and strategic investments, Vietnamese enterprises can overcome existing barriers and fully leverage the benefits of advanced technologies for economic growth and competitiveness.
Reference: VNS
