Hanoi:Vietnam is striving to enhance its role in ASEAN's robotics value chains by leveraging its strengths in export-oriented manufacturing and attracting foreign investment. This move comes as artificial intelligence (AI), automation, and robotics are transforming global manufacturing.
According to Emirates News Agency, advancements in AI, sensor technology, and intelligent control systems are extending the application of robotics beyond industrial production to sectors such as logistics, healthcare, and agriculture. The International Federation of Robotics (IFR) estimates that by 2025, approximately 5 million industrial robots will be operational worldwide, marking a 9 percent increase year on year, with more than 600,000 new units being installed.
ASEAN nations are adopting various strategies to develop their robotics industries. Singapore is concentrating on research and commercialisation efforts, Malaysia and Thailand on manufacturing automation, and Indonesia focuses on its Making Indonesia 4.0 initiative. Vietnam plans to leverage its manufacturing capabilities and foreign investment to boost its participation.
Increased regional cooperation could allow Vietnam to solidify its position in robotics production, integration, and deployment. Vietnam could benefit from shared technical standards, research infrastructure, and workforce development through regional collaboration.
The ASEAN Robotics and Physical AI Initiative 2030 aims to harmonise standards, facilitate mutual recognition of testing results, create cross-border testing facilities, and strengthen regional supply chains.