Vinachem's Strategic Shift: 1.500 Billion VND Investment in New Technology Centers Positions Vietnam for Global Tech Race
In a significant development signaling Vietnam's ambition to enter the global technology race, Vietnam Chemical Group (Vinachem) has unveiled ambitious plans to invest 1.500 billion VND (approximately $60 million USD) in a new technology center focused on next-generation batteries, AI, and semiconductor materials. This strategic pivot comes as traditional chemical conglomerates worldwide are positioning themselves at the intersection of chemistry and advanced technology.
On June 12, 2026, the Department of Innovation, Green Transition and Industrial Promotion under the Ministry of Industry and Trade held a working session with Vinachem to review the implementation of Resolution 57 on national science and technology development, innovation, and digital transformation. The meeting, attended by high-level officials from both organizations, marked a milestone in Vietnam's industrial evolution.
Leadership in Dialogue
The meeting brought together key decision-makers including Mrs. Nguyen Thi Lam Giang, Director General of the Department of Innovation, Green Transition and Industrial Promotion, along with technical officers from the Ministry of Industry and Trade. Representing Vinachem were Mr. Le Hoang, Deputy General Director of Vietnam Chemical Group, Mr. Phung Ngoc Bo, Head of the Technical Department, and leadership from various subsidiary units.
The discussions focused on strategic development in science and technology, digital transformation, and high-tech projects in the new phase, signaling a comprehensive approach to industrial modernization in Vietnam.
Vinachem's Transformation Strategy
According to reports presented during the meeting, Vinachem has completed numerous important action programs to serve digital transformation and innovation. The traditional chemical manufacturer is undergoing a remarkable transformation, positioning itself as a technology-driven enterprise.
| Initiative | Status |
|---|---|
| Implementation of Resolution 57 in member units | 100% |
| Digital transformation phase (2026-2030) | Planning completed |
| Science and technology program (2025-2030) | Under implementation |
| Science and technology steering committee | Established |
| Science and technology fund | Regulations issued |
Notably, the entire Vinachem system has developed implementation plans tailored to each production and business area, demonstrating a comprehensive approach to technological advancement across all operations.
Sodium-ion Battery Project: A Strategic Priority
One of the most discussed topics during the meeting was the development of Sodium-ion batteries and Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) by Southern Battery and Accumulator Joint Stock Company (PINACO), a Vinachem subsidiary.
Sodium-ion technology represents a promising alternative to traditional Lithium-ion batteries, offering advantages in terms of more abundant raw materials and lower production costs. This technology has gained significant attention globally as countries seek to diversify their energy storage solutions.
| Technology | Strategic Role |
|---|---|
| Sodium-ion batteries | Next-generation energy storage solution |
| BESS | Large-scale electricity storage systems |
| AI energy management | Optimized operations |
| Digital transformation | Reduced production costs |
Vinachem's goal is to commercialize these products in 2026, which would represent one of the most significant advancements for Vietnam's chemical industry in the new energy sector. If successful, this could position Vietnam as a player in the global energy storage market.
Entering the Semiconductor Value Chain
Beyond energy storage, Vinachem is targeting the high-value semiconductor and electronics industry. The company is researching several critical materials essential for chip manufacturing and high-tech devices:
- Ultra-pure phosphoric acid
- Ultra-pure sulfuric acid
- Ultra-pure hydrochloric acid
- Ultra-pure industrial gases
These materials are crucial components in semiconductor chip production, display manufacturing, and high-tech device assembly. As Vietnam attracts increasing semiconductor investment from international companies, developing domestic sources of ultra-pure chemicals holds strategic importance for the country's industrial ecosystem.
VinachemMart: Digital Transformation in Action
Vinachem's e-commerce platform, VinachemMart, has demonstrated tangible results since its launch, proving that digital transformation is generating real business value:
| Indicator | Achievement |
|---|---|
| Transaction revenue | Over 51.5 billion VND |
| Registered accounts | Over 52,000 |
| Successful orders | Nearly 26,000 |
These metrics indicate that digital initiatives are moving beyond theoretical concepts to create measurable business impact, reflecting successful digital transformation implementation across the organization.
1.500 Billion VND Investment at Hoa Lac
One of the most significant announcements during the meeting was Vinachem's plan to invest approximately 1,500 billion VND in a Science, Technology and Innovation Center at Hoa Lac High-Tech Park. This ambitious project aims to establish a premier chemical technology research facility in Vietnam.
The planned research focus areas include:
- Ultra-pure chemicals
- Pharmaceutical chemistry
- New materials
- Advanced chemical technologies
- Technologies for industrial production
If implemented according to schedule, this center could become Vietnam's leading research facility in high-tech chemical applications, supporting the country's industrial modernization goals and potentially attracting international partnerships and investment.
Strategic Implications for Vietnam's Industrial Future
The June 12, 2026 meeting demonstrates that Vinachem is no longer merely a traditional chemical manufacturing conglomerate. Through strategic investments in next-generation batteries, ultra-pure chemicals, AI, digital transformation, and a large-scale research center, Vinachem is betting on Vietnam's high-tech future.
| Strategic Initiative | Investment/Value |
|---|---|
| Innovation center | 1,500 billion VND |
| VinachemMart revenue | 51.5 billion VND |
| User accounts | Over 52,000 |
| Successful orders | Nearly 26,000 |
| Sodium-ion battery commercialization | Target: 2026 |
| Resolution 57 implementation | 100% in member units |
These developments signal a broader trend of industrial diversification in Vietnam, where traditional sectors are transforming into technology-driven enterprises. The success of Vinachem's strategy will depend on its ability to commercialize products and deeply participate in global value chains in the coming years.
As global supply chains continue to reconfigure and countries compete for technological leadership, Vinachem's ambitious plans could represent a significant step in Vietnam's journey toward becoming a competitive player in the global technology landscape. The chemical industry's evolution into high-tech manufacturing may well serve as a model for other traditional sectors seeking to modernize and elevate their technological capabilities.