Latest news with #LeThanhLong
DW
10-07-2025
- Business
- DW
Why is Vietnam cracking down on alcohol? – DW – 07/10/2025
Vietnam's alcohol tax hikes mark a bold public health push, but critics warn they could cripple the drinks industry. With authorities bracing for an aging population, public health is becoming a national concern. Vietnam's National Assembly last month approved plans to hike taxes on alcohol from 65% to 90% by 2031, a major step in the government's efforts to curb harmful consumption habits. The tax hike comes amid rising concerns within the ruling Communist Party about excessive drinking in Vietnam, with the authorities still struggling to enforce a zero-tolerance policy on drink-driving that was brought in in 2019. But the move is facing opposition from the alcohol industry. Even though Vietnam is Southeast Asia's second-largest beer market, according to a report by the consultancy group KPMG, the industry has been struggling with declining sales in recent years. Under the initial plans, taxes would have hit 80% in 2026 and rise to 100% by 2030. But it is thought that the authorities watered down the levies after lobbying from the alcohol industry. The Special Consumption Tax (SCT) on alcohol and beer will now rise from the current 65% to 70% by 2027 and ultimately to 90% by 2031. Lawmakers also approved a new tax of 8% on sugary drinks exceeding 5g/100ml of sugar that will take effect in 2027 and rise to 10% in 2028. Last year, alcohol industry bodies warned that the gradual tax rate hike could increase retail prices by at least 10% annually. Deputy Prime Minister Le Thanh Long, who has steered this law through parliament, has said that the higher taxes are necessary to address public health concerns. Alcohol consumption rates have steadily increased, from 2.9 liters of alcohol per person in 2005 to 7.9 liters in 2019, according to a report last year from the Department of Preventive Medicine under the Ministry of Health. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video It also found that alcohol is the second-highest cause of death in Vietnam. Angela Pratt, World Health Organization (WHO)representative in Vietnam, said in a statement that the global health body is "very pleased" that Vietnamese lawmakers have followed a "win-win" policy "of reducing the consumption of tobacco, alcohol and sugary drinks — and therefore reducing harm and health costs for decades to come — while generating additional revenue for key Government priorities." "Reducing consumption of these unhealthy products will improve population health, and in doing so, workforce participation and productivity," she added. In 2019, the government introduced a zero-tolerance policy on drink-driving as part of its efforts to significantly improve public health, as the country prepares for unprecedented demographic shifts that will require far more state spending on health care. Last month, To Lam, the Communist Party chief, announced that the government is progressing with its policy of providing free hospital care to every citizen. It aims to provide free coverage to 90% of the population by 2030. Under the new Law on Health Insurance, which is expected to be passed this month, the government aims to eventually introduce universal health insurance coverage and reduce out-of-pocket expenditures to around 20% of all health care costs within a decade. Currently, out-of-pocket spending accounts for 45% of all health expenditure. It is not uncommon for a household to become indebted in order to cover the health costs of a family member. However, the Communist Party's health insurance ambitions won't be cheap, especially considering the profound demographic changes that the country will undergo in the coming decades. Vietnam's population is aging fast, and the state is concerned that the working-age population will shrink as the percentage of retirees grows, which will put unprecedented strain on the government's coffers. "Vietnam's alcohol is still among the cheapest in the region, so the government sees higher taxes as a logical next step after the zero-tolerance drink-driving law," Khac Giang Nguyen, a visiting fellow at the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute in Singapore, told DW. Last month, the Ministry of Health also proposed establishing a Disease Prevention Fund within the draft Law on Disease Prevention, which would be supported by state funds, as well as potential additional levies on unhealthy foods and drinks, raising further alarm bells in the alcohol industry. "We are disappointed by the recent hikes to the Special Consumption Tax and are equally concerned about the cumulative impact of further tax increases, particularly in light of the newly proposed health levy under the draft Disease Prevention Law," Tim Wallwork, chair of the Asia Pacific International Spirits and Wines Alliance, told DW. "We call on the government to avoid layering additional tax responsibilities on top of the SCT, so that compliant businesses, including those with local manufacturing and long-term investments, have the space to adapt, recover and grow amid ongoing economic challenges and uncertainty," Wallwork added. According to the Vietnam Beer Alcohol Beverage Association, year-on-year sales fell by 23% in 2023. They declined by 7% the previous year. Declining sales were one reason why Heineken shut down operations at its Quang Nam brewery, one of six it operates in the country, in June 2024. Wallwork told DW that around 70% of alcohol consumption in Vietnam goes unrecorded, with most people still drinking unlicensed and potentially deadly alcohol. Southeast Asia's unregulated alcohol sector made international headlines last year after six backpackers died after drinking shots laced with methanol in Laos' tourist hub, Vang Vieng. To view this video please enable JavaScript, and consider upgrading to a web browser that supports HTML5 video "Further tax increases risk pushing consumers toward these unregulated and potentially harmful products, undermining public health and enforcement efforts," said Wallwork. However, the government has clearly decided that the health of the public trumps the health of the alcohol industry, and is well aware that enforcing preventative measures will be cheaper in the long run. "Many of Vietnam's major alcohol producers have been privatized, so the state no longer profits directly from higher sales. That makes it easier for the government to act without worrying about losing revenue," said Giang of the ISEAS – Yusof Ishak Institute. Even though beer sales are dipping, "higher taxes could make up the difference in volume. So, this move won't necessarily hurt the budget, but it does send a clear political signal about where the Communist Party stands," he added.
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem
HANOI, Vietnam, June 06, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Global IT services provider FPT and Pharma Group jointly hosted the Healthcare Innovation Forum - HIF 2025. The event served as a multi-stakeholder dialogue platform with a spotlight on breakthrough innovations in science, technology, and AI to accelerate healthcare advancements and drive digital transformation in public health services. The Forum was attended by Vietnam Deputy PM H.E. Le Thanh Long, key government officials, and international guests including U.S. Ambassador Marc Knapper, Swiss Ambassador Thomas Gass, former German Vice Chancellor Dr. Philipp Rösler, and representatives from Japan, Singapore, and Harvard Medical School. Vietnam Deputy PM H.E. Le Thanh Long stressed the urgent need to reform healthcare, outlining five strategies: accelerate digitalization with AI and IoT; boost biotech research; strengthen the pharmaceutical sector; foster public–private partnerships; and expand international cooperation for a modern digital health system. Mr. Darrell Oh, Chairman of Pharma Group, said: "Pharma Group, representing the innovative pharmaceutical industry, reaffirms its commitment to supporting Vietnam in achieving the goals outlined in Vision 2045. Realizing this ambition requires a unified, multi-stakeholder approach. Only through sustained collaboration can policy be translated into impactful, lasting improvements in public health. Investing in healthcare is, ultimately, an investment in Vietnam's most vital asset: its people." Dr. Truong Gia Binh, FPT Chairman, stated: "To accompany Vietnam's new era of advancement, the healthcare sector must achieve breakthroughs in three areas: regulation, innovation, and public–private collaboration. We must shift from restrictive thinking to viewing regulation as a driver of national competitiveness, ensuring faster access to new medicines, like in the U.S. or Japan. Vietnam can become a hub for AI-powered clinical trials and drug development, leveraging its strong tech talent with 1 million IT workers, aiming for half to be AI-proficient. Public–private partnerships must connect hospitals, pharmaceutical firms, and healthcare professionals through shared data platforms. Just as Vietnam rose to global prominence in software, it can now aim to lead in innovative pharmaceuticals - one of the world's most advanced industries." AI in Pharma: A Global Trend and an Opportunity for Vietnam Recent data shows 80% of pharma professionals use AI for drug discovery, with 95% of companies investing in it; and AI can cut drug development time from 5-6 years to one. In clinical trials, AI can reduce costs by 70% and timelines by 80%. Mr. Hoang Viet Anh, FPT Digital Chairman and FPT Telecom Chairman, FPT Corporation, underscored: "AI and GenAI are transforming the pharmaceutical industry, with key benefits including accelerating new drug development and enhancing clinical trials across the value chain." He also called this a key moment for digital transformation, outlining an AI roadmap for Vietnam's pharmaceutical sector through 2028. Plans include a centralized data system and AI lab pilots in 2025, blockchain trials in 2026 to fight counterfeit drugs, and a 20% reduction in drug trial time by 2027, aiming to become ASEAN's leading AI hub by 2028. Achieving Resolution 57 and National Goals for Healthcare Breakthroughs As Vietnam pursues its 2045 high-income vision, healthcare emerges as a key pillar for quality of life, social security, and sustainable growth. The round table discussing critical factors to achieve Resolution 57 objectives emphasized three key messages. Firstly, AI and big data drive healthcare innovation, enabling faster drug development and personalized care. Secondly, bold legal and institutional reforms are essential to match tech advances, including streamlined approvals and flexible data regulations. Lastly, strong public-private collaboration is vital to build a sustainable innovation ecosystem connecting tech firms, hospitals, research institutes, and startups. Mr. Vu Anh Tu, FPT Chief Technology Officer, commented: "AI is set to transform healthcare, and by creating a centralized health data infrastructure and leveraging AI and data analysis for new drug trials, Vietnam can establish advanced clinical research centers, shorten timelines, reduce costs, and expand public access to new medicines. Technology can also enable new healthcare delivery models like telemedicine hospitals to improve primary healthcare and expand public access." He further stated: "FPT is ready to collaborate with startups, major enterprises, and global AI research institutions to address key challenges through AI. This approach will mobilize domestic and international resources to drive breakthroughs in this new era." About Pharma Group Founded in 1998, Pharma Group represents the innovative pharmaceutical industry in Vietnam, comprising 20 member companies from Europe, the United States, and Japan. These companies share a mission to ensure timely and sustainable access to high-quality, safe, and innovative medicines for Vietnamese patients. Pharma Group operates under the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham) and is a member of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations (IFPMA). It works closely with policymakers and healthcare stakeholders in Vietnam and globally to advance sustainable health policies and initiatives, reduce the time to patient access, and build a favorable and attractive investment environment. About FPT Corporation FPT Corporation is Vietnam's leading technology group, pioneering digital transformation and leading in technology and telecommunications solutions and services. FPT supports clients in over 30 countries and territories in achieving their business development strategies through technology. In the healthcare sector, FPT is committed to building a remote healthcare platform and a comprehensive digital medical ecosystem that delivers fast, convenient, and integrated services for regulators, medical institutions, pharmaceutical companies, pharmacy networks, and the public. Leveraging over a decade of AI research and development, FPT actively integrates AI technologies to enhance healthcare quality and expand access to personalized medical services, particularly through telemedicine and real-time patient health monitoring. In pharmaceuticals, FPT advances the sector by digitizing R&D processes, deploying Advanced Pharmacy Omni-Channel Systems, and developing comprehensive drug management platforms connecting patients, doctors, and pharmacies through electronic medical records. Prominent clients include Long Chau Pharmacy, Hitachi Medical Devices, Olympus, MedAdvisor, Zuellig Pharma, and BrightInsight. View source version on Contacts Media ContactMai Duong (Ms.)FPT CorporationFPT Software PR
Associated Press
06-06-2025
- Health
- Associated Press
FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem
HANOI, Vietnam--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Jun 6, 2025-- Global IT services provider FPT and Pharma Group jointly hosted the Healthcare Innovation Forum - HIF 2025. The event served as a multi-stakeholder dialogue platform with a spotlight on breakthrough innovations in science, technology, and AI to accelerate healthcare advancements and drive digital transformation in public health services. This press release features multimedia. View the full release here: FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem The Forum was attended by Vietnam Deputy PM H.E. Le Thanh Long, key government officials, and international guests including U.S. Ambassador Marc Knapper, Swiss Ambassador Thomas Gass, former German Vice Chancellor Dr. Philipp Rösler, and representatives from Japan, Singapore, and Harvard Medical School. Vietnam Deputy PM H.E. Le Thanh Long stressed the urgent need to reform healthcare, outlining five strategies: accelerate digitalization with AI and IoT; boost biotech research; strengthen the pharmaceutical sector; foster public–private partnerships; and expand international cooperation for a modern digital health system. Mr. Darrell Oh, Chairman of Pharma Group, said: 'Pharma Group, representing the innovative pharmaceutical industry, reaffirms its commitment to supporting Vietnam in achieving the goals outlined in Vision 2045. Realizing this ambition requires a unified, multi-stakeholder approach. Only through sustained collaboration can policy be translated into impactful, lasting improvements in public health. Investing in healthcare is, ultimately, an investment in Vietnam's most vital asset: its people.' Dr. Truong Gia Binh, FPT Chairman, stated: 'To accompany Vietnam's new era of advancement, the healthcare sector must achieve breakthroughs in three areas: regulation, innovation, and public–private collaboration. We must shift from restrictive thinking to viewing regulation as a driver of national competitiveness, ensuring faster access to new medicines, like in the U.S. or Japan. Vietnam can become a hub for AI-powered clinical trials and drug development, leveraging its strong tech talent with 1 million IT workers, aiming for half to be AI-proficient. Public–private partnerships must connect hospitals, pharmaceutical firms, and healthcare professionals through shared data platforms. Just as Vietnam rose to global prominence in software, it can now aim to lead in innovative pharmaceuticals - one of the world's most advanced industries.' AI in Pharma: A Global Trend and an Opportunity for Vietnam Recent data shows 80% of pharma professionals use AI for drug discovery, with 95% of companies investing in it; and AI can cut drug development time from 5-6 years to one. In clinical trials, AI can reduce costs by 70% and timelines by 80%. Mr. Hoang Viet Anh, FPT Digital Chairman and FPT Telecom Chairman, FPT Corporation, underscored: 'AI and GenAI are transforming the pharmaceutical industry, with key benefits including accelerating new drug development and enhancing clinical trials across the value chain.' He also called this a key moment for digital transformation, outlining an AI roadmap for Vietnam's pharmaceutical sector through 2028. Plans include a centralized data system and AI lab pilots in 2025, blockchain trials in 2026 to fight counterfeit drugs, and a 20% reduction in drug trial time by 2027, aiming to become ASEAN's leading AI hub by 2028. Achieving Resolution 57 and National Goals for Healthcare Breakthroughs As Vietnam pursues its 2045 high-income vision, healthcare emerges as a key pillar for quality of life, social security, and sustainable growth. The round table discussing critical factors to achieve Resolution 57 objectives emphasized three key messages. Firstly, AI and big data drive healthcare innovation, enabling faster drug development and personalized care. Secondly, bold legal and institutional reforms are essential to match tech advances, including streamlined approvals and flexible data regulations. Lastly, strong public-private collaboration is vital to build a sustainable innovation ecosystem connecting tech firms, hospitals, research institutes, and startups. Mr. Vu Anh Tu, FPT Chief Technology Officer, commented: 'AI is set to transform healthcare, and by creating a centralized health data infrastructure and leveraging AI and data analysis for new drug trials, Vietnam can establish advanced clinical research centers, shorten timelines, reduce costs, and expand public access to new medicines. Technology can also enable new healthcare delivery models like telemedicine hospitals to improve primary healthcare and expand public access.' He further stated: 'FPT is ready to collaborate with startups, major enterprises, and global AI research institutions to address key challenges through AI. This approach will mobilize domestic and international resources to drive breakthroughs in this new era.' About Pharma Group Founded in 1998, Pharma Group represents the innovative pharmaceutical industry in Vietnam, comprising 20 member companies from Europe, the United States, and Japan. These companies share a mission to ensure timely and sustainable access to high-quality, safe, and innovative medicines for Vietnamese patients. Pharma Group operates under the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham) and is a member of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations (IFPMA). It works closely with policymakers and healthcare stakeholders in Vietnam and globally to advance sustainable health policies and initiatives, reduce the time to patient access, and build a favorable and attractive investment environment. About FPT Corporation FPT Corporation is Vietnam's leading technology group, pioneering digital transformation and leading in technology and telecommunications solutions and services. FPT supports clients in over 30 countries and territories in achieving their business development strategies through technology. In the healthcare sector, FPT is committed to building a remote healthcare platform and a comprehensive digital medical ecosystem that delivers fast, convenient, and integrated services for regulators, medical institutions, pharmaceutical companies, pharmacy networks, and the public. Leveraging over a decade of AI research and development, FPT actively integrates AI technologies to enhance healthcare quality and expand access to personalized medical services, particularly through telemedicine and real-time patient health monitoring. In pharmaceuticals, FPT advances the sector by digitizing R&D processes, deploying Advanced Pharmacy Omni-Channel Systems, and developing comprehensive drug management platforms connecting patients, doctors, and pharmacies through electronic medical records. Prominent clients include Long Chau Pharmacy, Hitachi Medical Devices, Olympus, MedAdvisor, Zuellig Pharma, and BrightInsight. View source version on CONTACT: Media Contact Mai Duong (Ms.) FPT Corporation FPT Software PR Manager [email protected] KEYWORD: VIET NAM SOUTHEAST ASIA ASIA PACIFIC INDUSTRY KEYWORD: TECHNOLOGY CLINICAL TRIALS HEALTH TECHNOLOGY TELEMEDICINE/VIRTUAL MEDICINE SOFTWARE HEALTH PHARMACEUTICAL DATA MANAGEMENT ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE SOURCE: FPT Corporation Copyright Business Wire 2025. PUB: 06/06/2025 07:13 AM/DISC: 06/06/2025 07:12 AM
Yahoo
06-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem
HANOI, Vietnam, June 06, 2025--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Global IT services provider FPT and Pharma Group jointly hosted the Healthcare Innovation Forum - HIF 2025. The event served as a multi-stakeholder dialogue platform with a spotlight on breakthrough innovations in science, technology, and AI to accelerate healthcare advancements and drive digital transformation in public health services. The Forum was attended by Vietnam Deputy PM H.E. Le Thanh Long, key government officials, and international guests including U.S. Ambassador Marc Knapper, Swiss Ambassador Thomas Gass, former German Vice Chancellor Dr. Philipp Rösler, and representatives from Japan, Singapore, and Harvard Medical School. Vietnam Deputy PM H.E. Le Thanh Long stressed the urgent need to reform healthcare, outlining five strategies: accelerate digitalization with AI and IoT; boost biotech research; strengthen the pharmaceutical sector; foster public–private partnerships; and expand international cooperation for a modern digital health system. Mr. Darrell Oh, Chairman of Pharma Group, said: "Pharma Group, representing the innovative pharmaceutical industry, reaffirms its commitment to supporting Vietnam in achieving the goals outlined in Vision 2045. Realizing this ambition requires a unified, multi-stakeholder approach. Only through sustained collaboration can policy be translated into impactful, lasting improvements in public health. Investing in healthcare is, ultimately, an investment in Vietnam's most vital asset: its people." Dr. Truong Gia Binh, FPT Chairman, stated: "To accompany Vietnam's new era of advancement, the healthcare sector must achieve breakthroughs in three areas: regulation, innovation, and public–private collaboration. We must shift from restrictive thinking to viewing regulation as a driver of national competitiveness, ensuring faster access to new medicines, like in the U.S. or Japan. Vietnam can become a hub for AI-powered clinical trials and drug development, leveraging its strong tech talent with 1 million IT workers, aiming for half to be AI-proficient. Public–private partnerships must connect hospitals, pharmaceutical firms, and healthcare professionals through shared data platforms. Just as Vietnam rose to global prominence in software, it can now aim to lead in innovative pharmaceuticals - one of the world's most advanced industries." AI in Pharma: A Global Trend and an Opportunity for Vietnam Recent data shows 80% of pharma professionals use AI for drug discovery, with 95% of companies investing in it; and AI can cut drug development time from 5-6 years to one. In clinical trials, AI can reduce costs by 70% and timelines by 80%. Mr. Hoang Viet Anh, FPT Digital Chairman and FPT Telecom Chairman, FPT Corporation, underscored: "AI and GenAI are transforming the pharmaceutical industry, with key benefits including accelerating new drug development and enhancing clinical trials across the value chain." He also called this a key moment for digital transformation, outlining an AI roadmap for Vietnam's pharmaceutical sector through 2028. Plans include a centralized data system and AI lab pilots in 2025, blockchain trials in 2026 to fight counterfeit drugs, and a 20% reduction in drug trial time by 2027, aiming to become ASEAN's leading AI hub by 2028. Achieving Resolution 57 and National Goals for Healthcare Breakthroughs As Vietnam pursues its 2045 high-income vision, healthcare emerges as a key pillar for quality of life, social security, and sustainable growth. The round table discussing critical factors to achieve Resolution 57 objectives emphasized three key messages. Firstly, AI and big data drive healthcare innovation, enabling faster drug development and personalized care. Secondly, bold legal and institutional reforms are essential to match tech advances, including streamlined approvals and flexible data regulations. Lastly, strong public-private collaboration is vital to build a sustainable innovation ecosystem connecting tech firms, hospitals, research institutes, and startups. Mr. Vu Anh Tu, FPT Chief Technology Officer, commented: "AI is set to transform healthcare, and by creating a centralized health data infrastructure and leveraging AI and data analysis for new drug trials, Vietnam can establish advanced clinical research centers, shorten timelines, reduce costs, and expand public access to new medicines. Technology can also enable new healthcare delivery models like telemedicine hospitals to improve primary healthcare and expand public access." He further stated: "FPT is ready to collaborate with startups, major enterprises, and global AI research institutions to address key challenges through AI. This approach will mobilize domestic and international resources to drive breakthroughs in this new era." About Pharma Group Founded in 1998, Pharma Group represents the innovative pharmaceutical industry in Vietnam, comprising 20 member companies from Europe, the United States, and Japan. These companies share a mission to ensure timely and sustainable access to high-quality, safe, and innovative medicines for Vietnamese patients. Pharma Group operates under the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham) and is a member of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations (IFPMA). It works closely with policymakers and healthcare stakeholders in Vietnam and globally to advance sustainable health policies and initiatives, reduce the time to patient access, and build a favorable and attractive investment environment. About FPT Corporation FPT Corporation is Vietnam's leading technology group, pioneering digital transformation and leading in technology and telecommunications solutions and services. FPT supports clients in over 30 countries and territories in achieving their business development strategies through technology. In the healthcare sector, FPT is committed to building a remote healthcare platform and a comprehensive digital medical ecosystem that delivers fast, convenient, and integrated services for regulators, medical institutions, pharmaceutical companies, pharmacy networks, and the public. Leveraging over a decade of AI research and development, FPT actively integrates AI technologies to enhance healthcare quality and expand access to personalized medical services, particularly through telemedicine and real-time patient health monitoring. In pharmaceuticals, FPT advances the sector by digitizing R&D processes, deploying Advanced Pharmacy Omni-Channel Systems, and developing comprehensive drug management platforms connecting patients, doctors, and pharmacies through electronic medical records. Prominent clients include Long Chau Pharmacy, Hitachi Medical Devices, Olympus, MedAdvisor, Zuellig Pharma, and BrightInsight. View source version on Contacts Media ContactMai Duong (Ms.)FPT CorporationFPT Software PR Error in retrieving data Sign in to access your portfolio Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data Error in retrieving data
Business Wire
06-06-2025
- Health
- Business Wire
FPT Proposes Public-Private Partnership Model to Develop Vietnam's Digital Healthcare Ecosystem
BUSINESS WIRE)--Global IT services provider FPT and Pharma Group jointly hosted the Healthcare Innovation Forum - HIF 2025. The event served as a multi-stakeholder dialogue platform with a spotlight on breakthrough innovations in science, technology, and AI to accelerate healthcare advancements and drive digital transformation in public health services. The Forum was attended by Vietnam Deputy PM H.E. Le Thanh Long, key government officials, and international guests including U.S. Ambassador Marc Knapper, Swiss Ambassador Thomas Gass, former German Vice Chancellor Dr. Philipp Rösler, and representatives from Japan, Singapore, and Harvard Medical School. Vietnam Deputy PM H.E. Le Thanh Long stressed the urgent need to reform healthcare, outlining five strategies: accelerate digitalization with AI and IoT; boost biotech research; strengthen the pharmaceutical sector; foster public–private partnerships; and expand international cooperation for a modern digital health system. Mr. Darrell Oh, Chairman of Pharma Group, said: 'Pharma Group, representing the innovative pharmaceutical industry, reaffirms its commitment to supporting Vietnam in achieving the goals outlined in Vision 2045. Realizing this ambition requires a unified, multi-stakeholder approach. Only through sustained collaboration can policy be translated into impactful, lasting improvements in public health. Investing in healthcare is, ultimately, an investment in Vietnam's most vital asset: its people.' Dr. Truong Gia Binh, FPT Chairman, stated: 'To accompany Vietnam's new era of advancement, the healthcare sector must achieve breakthroughs in three areas: regulation, innovation, and public–private collaboration. We must shift from restrictive thinking to viewing regulation as a driver of national competitiveness, ensuring faster access to new medicines, like in the U.S. or Japan. Vietnam can become a hub for AI-powered clinical trials and drug development, leveraging its strong tech talent with 1 million IT workers, aiming for half to be AI-proficient. Public–private partnerships must connect hospitals, pharmaceutical firms, and healthcare professionals through shared data platforms. Just as Vietnam rose to global prominence in software, it can now aim to lead in innovative pharmaceuticals - one of the world's most advanced industries.' AI in Pharma: A Global Trend and an Opportunity for Vietnam Recent data shows 80% of pharma professionals use AI for drug discovery, with 95% of companies investing in it; and AI can cut drug development time from 5-6 years to one. In clinical trials, AI can reduce costs by 70% and timelines by 80%. Mr. Hoang Viet Anh, FPT Digital Chairman and FPT Telecom Chairman, FPT Corporation, underscored: 'AI and GenAI are transforming the pharmaceutical industry, with key benefits including accelerating new drug development and enhancing clinical trials across the value chain.' He also called this a key moment for digital transformation, outlining an AI roadmap for Vietnam's pharmaceutical sector through 2028. Plans include a centralized data system and AI lab pilots in 2025, blockchain trials in 2026 to fight counterfeit drugs, and a 20% reduction in drug trial time by 2027, aiming to become ASEAN's leading AI hub by 2028. Achieving Resolution 57 and National Goals for Healthcare Breakthroughs As Vietnam pursues its 2045 high-income vision, healthcare emerges as a key pillar for quality of life, social security, and sustainable growth. The round table discussing critical factors to achieve Resolution 57 objectives emphasized three key messages. Firstly, AI and big data drive healthcare innovation, enabling faster drug development and personalized care. Secondly, bold legal and institutional reforms are essential to match tech advances, including streamlined approvals and flexible data regulations. Lastly, strong public-private collaboration is vital to build a sustainable innovation ecosystem connecting tech firms, hospitals, research institutes, and startups. Mr. Vu Anh Tu, FPT Chief Technology Officer, commented: 'AI is set to transform healthcare, and by creating a centralized health data infrastructure and leveraging AI and data analysis for new drug trials, Vietnam can establish advanced clinical research centers, shorten timelines, reduce costs, and expand public access to new medicines. Technology can also enable new healthcare delivery models like telemedicine hospitals to improve primary healthcare and expand public access.' He further stated: 'FPT is ready to collaborate with startups, major enterprises, and global AI research institutions to address key challenges through AI. This approach will mobilize domestic and international resources to drive breakthroughs in this new era.' About Pharma Group Founded in 1998, Pharma Group represents the innovative pharmaceutical industry in Vietnam, comprising 20 member companies from Europe, the United States, and Japan. These companies share a mission to ensure timely and sustainable access to high-quality, safe, and innovative medicines for Vietnamese patients. Pharma Group operates under the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham) and is a member of the International Federation of Pharmaceutical Manufacturers & Associations (IFPMA). It works closely with policymakers and healthcare stakeholders in Vietnam and globally to advance sustainable health policies and initiatives, reduce the time to patient access, and build a favorable and attractive investment environment. About FPT Corporation FPT Corporation is Vietnam's leading technology group, pioneering digital transformation and leading in technology and telecommunications solutions and services. FPT supports clients in over 30 countries and territories in achieving their business development strategies through technology. In the healthcare sector, FPT is committed to building a remote healthcare platform and a comprehensive digital medical ecosystem that delivers fast, convenient, and integrated services for regulators, medical institutions, pharmaceutical companies, pharmacy networks, and the public. Leveraging over a decade of AI research and development, FPT actively integrates AI technologies to enhance healthcare quality and expand access to personalized medical services, particularly through telemedicine and real-time patient health monitoring. In pharmaceuticals, FPT advances the sector by digitizing R&D processes, deploying Advanced Pharmacy Omni-Channel Systems, and developing comprehensive drug management platforms connecting patients, doctors, and pharmacies through electronic medical records. Prominent clients include Long Chau Pharmacy, Hitachi Medical Devices, Olympus, MedAdvisor, Zuellig Pharma, and BrightInsight.
