Industry 4.0 paving the way for Vietnam’s startups

1 min readUpdated May 24, 2025Jun 22, 20178:41 AM

In this article (5)

FPT Corporation Chairman Truong Gia Binh and Asanzo Vietnam CEO Pham Van Tam share their outlook on the Industry 4.0 trend. Industry 4.0, short for emerging technologies like cloud, artificial intelligence and machine learning, is considered the fourth industrial revolution, and is rapidly changing the world.

Vietnam had missed three industrial revolutions before so it’s high time for the country to catch up with this global trend, said Truong Gia Binh, Chairman of technology giant FPT Corporation. “Don’t grow old before you get rich.”

Industry 4.0 will pave the way for businesses in Vietnam, including the startup community, given the country’s young demographic and high internet penetration rate, Binh commented. The revolution will also create more jobs.

Unlike the last three industrial revolutions, Industry 4.0 focuses on automation and data exchange in manufacturing technologies. Small startups with limited capital can still be very competitive, he added.

“Opportunities and risks go hand in hand, but with government support for the startup community, they should begin to change their minds and the way they run their businesses, depending on their needs and financial capabilities,” Tam said.However, launching a new enterprise also means taking a risk, Pham Van Tam, CEO of Asanzo Vietnam, warned.

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What this means

The enthusiasm for Industry 4.0 in Vietnam, particularly from FPT Corporation and Asanzo Vietnam, highlights a strategic imperative for the region. Unlike previous industrial shifts, this revolution democratises innovation, allowing agile startups to compete effectively despite limited capital. This puts pressure on larger, established retailers and manufacturers to embrace automation and data exchange or risk being outmanoeuvred by leaner, tech-savvy entrants. While risks are inherent, government support noted by Pham Van Tam could mitigate these, potentially fostering a vibrant, competitive retail landscape. This echoes broader Asian trends where tech adoption is rapid, but Vietnam's specific demographic and internet penetration rates make it a unique test case. Monitor government policy announcements for specific startup incentives.

Rajiv Menon · Retail News Asia newsroom

Questions & Answers

Why is it important for Vietnam to embrace Industry 4.0 now?

Vietnam missed the previous three industrial revolutions, making it crucial for the country to engage with this global trend. FPT Corporation Chairman Truong Gia Binh believes it is time for Vietnam to catch up.

What advantages does Vietnam have in adopting Industry 4.0?

Vietnam benefits from a young demographic and a high internet penetration rate, which Industry 4.0 can use. This makes it easier for businesses, including startups, to thrive in the new environment.

How can small startups compete in Industry 4.0?

Industry 4.0 focuses on automation and data exchange, allowing small startups with limited capital to remain very competitive. They can use these technologies to innovate and grow effectively.

What role does government support play for startups in this revolution?

Government support is seen as crucial for the startup community to navigate the risks and opportunities of Industry 4.0. It encourages them to adapt their business strategies and mindsets according to their needs.

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