Ho Chi Minh City plans to allocate VND12.705 trillion (approximately $485 million) in 2026 to science, technology, innovation and digital transformation, equivalent to 4.16% of its total budget expenditure, as it seeks to make these sectors key drivers of sustainable economic growth.

As part of its strategic technology agenda, the city has introduced an implementation plan covering nine priority technology areas and 26 priority product groups. It has also established a venture capital fund with an initial charter capital of VND500 billion, with plans to expand the fund to VND5 trillion to support technology research, commercialization and startup growth.

The city is also accelerating investment in digital infrastructure. It currently operates 8,523 5G base stations, accounting for 22.48% of Vietnam's total, providing more than 95% population coverage. A dedicated private 5G network is being piloted at Quang Trung Software Park to support Internet of Things (IoT) applications and smart city development.

In addition, the city has developed a comprehensive plan for a citywide camera platform to enhance public administration, security, traffic management and urban operations. Around VND3 trillion is expected to be invested in upgrading data centers, network infrastructure and digital data systems.

The city's innovation ecosystem has also gained international recognition. The city ranks second nationwide in Vietnam's Provincial Innovation Index and has entered the world's top 100 startup ecosystems for the first time. Its innovation ecosystem is valued at approximately $7.5 billion, while the the Startup and Innovation Hub of HCM City (SIHUB) has supported the incubation of 195 startup projects.