Da Nang – Vietnam’s emerging IT hub
In recent years, Da Nang has gained recognition not only as the “most livable city” but also as one of Vietnam’s fastest-growing IT hubs. The city is building a strong foundation for the technology sector through advanced infrastructure, government support, a vibrant startup ecosystem, and practical, education-oriented initiatives. These factors are pushing Da Nang closer to becoming a regional technology center.
Strong demand for IT talent
At a recent technology career fair, IT accounted for more than 40% of the thousands of job and internship opportunities. High-demand roles include:
- Web, Mobile, and Game Developers
- Data, AI, and Machine Learning Engineers
- Automotive Software Engineers
- Fintech and Blockchain Specialists
- Semiconductor and Embedded System Engineers
Da Nang currently has around 45,000 IT professionals. By 2030, this number is expected to reach 80,000-100,000, with an annual growth rate of 10-12%.
Compared to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang’s IT market is smaller but has a higher demand for fresh graduates. Labor costs are 15-20% lower, making the city attractive to global investors.
IT infrastructure and global investment
Technology infrastructure
- Software Parks: Existing parks already host dozens of technology companies, and new developments are underway to provide thousands of additional workplaces, with a focus on AI, fintech, and semiconductor firms.
- Data centers & telecom: Multiple providers offer advanced data centers and wide 5G coverage, essential for AI and IoT applications.
- Smart city projects: Da Nang leads central Vietnam in digital government, smart city management, and IoT adoption.
International investors
Global companies from Asia, Europe, and the US have expanded operations in Da Nang. Many firms are planning large-scale workforce training, including semiconductor engineers. Investors choose Da Nang for three reasons:
- Lower costs than Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
- Strategic location on the east–west economic corridor
- Favorable policies, including tax incentives and technology sandboxes
Education and IT training
Da Nang’s universities and academies are building a steady IT talent pipeline, opening new majors in fintech, data analytics, game technology, and automotive software engineering. Private academies also provide short-term, hands-on training in AI, cloud, cybersecurity, and programming.
Annually, 8,000-10,000 IT graduates enter the workforce. However, high-level talent in AI, semiconductors, and big data remains limited, highlighting the need for international collaboration and postgraduate training.
Comparison with Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City
- Hanoi: National R&D hub with a strong talent pool, but high competition and costs.
- Ho Chi Minh City: Startup and fintech capital, contributing nearly half of Vietnam’s tech market. Vibrant, but the most expensive in labor and office space.
- Da Nang: More affordable, supportive policies, high quality of life. Best suited for freshers, SMEs, and companies expanding operations. However, it lacks large-scale R&D projects and global investments.
Outlook to 2030
If Da Nang maintains its current growth, it could become Vietnam’s second-largest IT hub, competing with Ho Chi Minh City in software exports. Growth will likely be driven by AI, fintech, semiconductors, and game technology.
Yet, challenges remain. Without strong retention of top talent and attraction of large-scale foreign investment, Da Nang risks staying a regional hub instead of achieving national or global recognition.
Conclusion
Da Nang is on track to become the technology valley of Central Vietnam. With modern infrastructure, global startup links, practical education, and supportive government policies, the city has everything needed to accelerate IT growth.
From 2025 to 2030, Da Nang’s success will depend on its ability to retain skilled talent and secure major foreign investment. If successful, Da Nang will not only be Vietnam’s rising IT destination but also an international technology hub in the near future.
