ADB: Viet Nam poised for breakthroughs in green growth and digitalization
VGP - Viet Nam stands at the threshold of becoming a model for green growth, provided it creates a strong policy environment, invests in high-quality human resources, and ensures equity in the transition.
Scott Morris, Vice-President (East and Southeast Asia, and the Pacific) of the Asian Development Bank (ADB). Photo: VGP/Quang Thuong
In an exclusive interview with VGP ahead of Viet Nam's hosting of the fourth Partnering for Green Growth and the Global Goals 2030 (P4G) Summit in 2025, Scott Morris, Vice-President (East and Southeast Asia, and the Pacific) of the Asian Development Bank (ADB), discussed Viet Nam's innovation potential and digital transformation capabilities in transitioning towards a green, inclusive, and sustainable economy.
Viet Nam's solid economic fundamentals and consistent growth have created favorable conditions to advance its ambitious green agenda. Specifically, Morris praised the country as "an exception in opening up its economy and achieving rapid development," and a standout model among developing nations for its ability to fully integrate into global supply chains.
However, Morris underscored that the path to transformation is not without challenges, particularly in scaling up green technologies and ensuring digitalization serves both growth and inclusion.
Energy transition, he noted, is central to Viet Nam's strategy, requiring policies that enable innovation, encourage private-sector participation, and lower the cost of clean energy infrastructure. Hence, ADB believes targeted support for startups and small enterprises can unlock breakthrough solutions.
Besides, human capital will be a decisive factor. Morris pointed out that while Viet Nam's education system has earned global recognition, translating that foundation into a future-ready, high-skilled workforce is essential, especially in emerging sectors like AI.
Furthermore, equity must remain at the heart of growth. "Growth cannot be considered successful if it leaves part of society behind," he said, emphasizing the importance of channeling investment toward vulnerable groups, including women and rural communities.
ADB's development model in Viet Nam involves a synergistic partnership with both the public and private sectors. By supporting policy reforms and offering direct investment, ADB helps create a more conducive environment for clean energy, digital innovation, and inclusive economic development.
As Viet Nam moves forward, Morris called for stronger institutional frameworks, better access to green finance, and expanded technical training to prepare the workforce for rapid shifts in technology and energy systems.
With the backing of international partners like ADB, Viet Nam has a unique opportunity to lead by example in the global movement toward equitable, green, and digitally driven growth./.
