VCCI Vice President Hoàng Quang Phòng speaks at the forum

Speaking at the forum “A Safe Digital Future for SMEs,” Mr. Hoàng Quang Phòng, Vice President of the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI), emphasized that digital technology is no longer just a supporting tool but has become the operational foundation of businesses. In particular, digital security is now a prerequisite for enterprises to operate and develop sustainably in the digital economy.

According to him, cybersecurity risks today are no longer purely technical issues but factors that directly threaten business survival and growth. A single security incident can wipe out years of effort in a very short time.

Delegates press the button to launch the forum

Through close engagement with the business community, risks related to data, system security, and emerging technologies such as deepfakes, advanced malware, and sophisticated fraud are no longer distant threats but immediate dangers that can cause significant losses and erode trust and reputation.

In this context, SMEs—especially women-led businesses—face a “double gap”: a lack of resources (financial, technological, and skilled personnel) and limited access to relevant information and suitable solutions tailored to their scale and operations.

Overview of the forum “A Safe Digital Future for SMEs”

Therefore, digital security is no longer optional but a fundamental requirement for sustainable business survival and growth.

More importantly, it should not be viewed solely as a technical issue but as a strategic governance matter—starting from leadership awareness, building a risk-aware corporate culture, and proactively investing in and integrating cybersecurity across the entire value chain.

In recent years, the Party and State have introduced important policies, including Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW on breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation, along with the Cybersecurity Law and Personal Data Protection Law, gradually creating a clearer legal framework for businesses.

National programs such as “24/7 Vigilance” and “Anti-Fraud” broadcast on VTV have also helped raise public awareness.

The VCCI Vice President stressed that digital security is not a destination but a continuous journey, in which digital trust will be the most valuable asset for businesses.

Delegates attend the forum

“With the support of government agencies and organizations such as VCCI, the National Cybersecurity Association, the Asia Foundation, and other partners, the Vietnamese business community—especially SMEs and women-led enterprises—will gradually enhance their ability to protect themselves, adapt, and grow sustainably in the digital era,” he said.

Currently, SMEs account for more than 97% of all enterprises in Vietnam, contributing nearly 50% of GDP and creating 80% of jobs in the private sector.

They are not only an economic pillar but also a driving force of innovation and dynamism in the digital economy. However, due to limited resources, lack of IT personnel, and insufficient response capabilities, SMEs are at risk of becoming weak links in the digital ecosystem—potentially disrupting business operations and affecting partners, customers, and entire value chains.

SMEs frequently face cybersecurity incidents, from data breaches and contract disruptions to online attacks and fraud, all of which can cause long-term damage to reputation and market trust.

These challenges highlight that cybersecurity is not merely a technical issue but a strategic concern directly linked to the stability and sustainable development of both businesses and the national economy.

Mr. Vũ Duy Hiền, Vice Secretary General and Chief of Office of the National Cybersecurity Association, delivers the opening remarks

Mr. Vũ Duy Hiền noted that only when SMEs successfully undergo digital transformation can national digital transformation achieve real depth and impact.

However, he pointed out that with limited financial resources, IT personnel, and security capabilities, many SMEs risk becoming “blind spots” in digital safety.

Therefore, what businesses need is not just slogans or calls to action, but practical knowledge, timely guidance, and a strong support ecosystem to help prevent, respond to, and recover from cybersecurity incidents.

As part of the event, the organizers also launched an initiative to support SMEs by connecting government agencies, professional associations, and domestic and international partners with businesses, aiming to build a safe, trustworthy, and responsible digital environment.