Projects that focus on high technology, digital infrastructure, digital platforms, and workforce training can be done through public-private partnerships and will get many incentives under a new government degree.
The decree, effective July 1, paves the way for PPPs in science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation.
It applies to domestic and international organizations and individuals involved in investment, scientific research, technology development, innovation, and digital transformation as well as ministries, central and local agencies and public institutions.
It targets four key areas.
High technology and related infrastructure: This includes high-tech and strategic technologies and infrastructure that support high-tech development.
Digital infrastructure: This covers infrastructure to meet the demands of a digital economy, digital society and digital government, as outlined in Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh’s digital infrastructure strategy.
Shared digital platforms: These encompass platforms which pilot special mechanisms and policies to drive breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation.
Workforce training and supporting infrastructure: Projects that focus on training personnel for digital technology and digital industries will be incentivized.
For the last category, the decree lists specific activities eligible to be carried out through PPPs, including investment, construction, operation of online education and training platforms, digital university education models, and initiatives to enhance digital application in society.
It also covers investment, construction, operation, and upgrades to and expansion of educational and training facilities for strategic technologies.
It includes development and expansion of training programs for digital technology and digital industry personnel.
The decree also includes provisions for other technologies, products, services, and activities that align with goals for scientific research, technology development, innovation, and digital transformation.
The incentives for these include deductible expenses up to 200% of actual costs. They also include exemptions and reductions in land use fees and rent, and investment incentives.
The decree guarantees ownership of the outcomes of research and technology development. Some of its provisions on intellectual property and profit-sharing are set to take effect on Oct. 1.
