In the next in our series looking at AI policy practice, we speak to Minh Tran, AI governance and ethical AI advisor at FPT Software, a leading AI software company in Vietnam with revenues $1bn, about the progress of AI policy in Vietnam, the support that developing nations need, and how AI policy might develop in the region.  

What is your role, and what area of AI governance do you focus on?

In my role at FPT Software, I provide AI governance consulting for tech companies in Vietnam. Specifically, I help companies to meet AI management processes aligned with ISO 42001, the standard for AI management systems.

In addition, I conduct policy research through international programs run by organisations such as the Centre for AI and Digital Policy (CAIDP). I am also planning public outreach initiatives, including producing Vietnamese-language videos on AI ethics and designing responsible AI usage courses on platforms like Udemy.

What is the awareness of AI policy and governance in Vietnam?

In Vietnam, policymakers focus on economic growth, and technology companies tend to prioritise sales and product expansion over AI risk management and ethics. As a result, awareness of AI governance remains low and underdeveloped in the country. However, we are at a pivotal moment. Decisions Vietnamese policymakers make now about how they govern AI will shape our society for years to come.

What progress has been made towards AI policy and AI governance in Vietnam and the region more widely?

Vietnam and much of Southeast Asia remain in the early stages of AI policy development, trailing global leaders such as the EU and its AI Act. The Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) has introduced its Guide on AI Governance and Ethics and its Responsible AI Roadmap. However, these frameworks lack enforceability. As a result, they are well-intentioned but are largely aspirational.

Thailand, the Philippines, and Indonesia have made progress in data protection and AI governance. However, Vietnam is still grappling with some fundamental issues. There is no dedicated AI legislation, no enforcement mechanisms, and existing ethical guidelines lack clarity and legal force. Critically, Vietnam has yet to release a national roadmap for the safe and responsible deployment of AI. This regulatory void presents serious risks, not only technical failures but also broader societal harm.

How would you like AI policy to develop in the region?

ASEAN should have a dedicated AI policy and research centre that brings together experts, legislators, and industry representatives to exchange knowledge and co-develop practical guidelines.

There is a significant disparity in the development of AI policies both within regions and globally, and especially within developing regions. So, ideally, Vietnam and other similar countries would establish mechanisms that enable experts from developing countries to understand and keep up with the AI policy-making process, and to contribute their voices and perspectives.