On March 22, at the inaugural National Congress of the National Data Association (NDA) for the 2025–2030 term, General Secretary To Lam delivered a keynote speech outlining the importance of data in the age of digital transformation.

Data at the center of digital transformation

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General Secretary To Lam delivers a keynote speech at the launch of the National Data Association. Photo by Hoang Ha.

He stated that the opportunities and challenges of the digital era are equally significant. The challenge lies in minimizing risks while maximizing opportunities. Recognizing the importance of data, the Party and the State have proactively formulated strategic orientations and legal frameworks to foster data governance, sharing, and exploitation while ensuring cybersecurity and data sovereignty.

Resolution No. 52-NQ/TW (September 27, 2019) of the Politburo set out policies to actively participate in the Fourth Industrial Revolution, focusing on developing the digital economy. More recently, Resolution No. 57-NQ/TW (December 22, 2024) affirmed that data is central to digital transformation and a key driver of development.

Mr. To Lam outlined three fundamental aspects of data management:

High-quality data production: This involves ensuring that data is accurate and reliable, transforming data management into an industry in its own right.

Data connectivity: Data should not only be collected and stored but also integrated and shared efficiently.

Data security: As data becomes an invaluable resource, protecting it from breaches and misuse is crucial.

Challenges in data management and transformation

Mr. To Lam acknowledged that despite progress, challenges remain. Public awareness of data's role is still limited, data infrastructure is fragmented and lacks connectivity, and the workforce with advanced data skills is insufficient. Furthermore, the legal framework on data protection, especially concerning personal data and privacy, needs to be strengthened.

In the digital age, mastering data is essential to maintaining sovereignty, security, and development opportunities. Digital transformation presents a historic opportunity for Vietnam to make a breakthrough.

Key tasks for the National Data Association

General Secretary To Lam outlined seven priority tasks for the NDA:

Developing a comprehensive legal framework for data management: This includes completing the Personal Data Protection Law and the revised Cybersecurity Law by 2025.

Building a robust national data ecosystem: Focusing on four pillars—people, location, activities, and products.

Mastering and innovating core data technologies: Including AI, big data, blockchain, and cloud computing.

Building modern data infrastructure: Investing in both state-funded and private data centers.

Strengthening international cooperation: Connecting data with regional and global systems to stay ahead in technological applications.

Ensuring effective monitoring and enforcement: Utilizing digital technology to enhance compliance and efficiency.

Enhancing data security: Developing industry standards and protective mechanisms to safeguard data.

Mr. To Lam called on the entire community - including businesses, scientists, experts, and government agencies- to work together with the NDA to achieve the vision of a prosperous digital nation. He stressed that mastering data is key to securing Vietnam's future as a digital economy and society.

Thien Binh