Vietnam/ Building a "digital shield" for small and medium-sized businesses

SMEs play a central role but face many risks in digital transformation. Strengthening cybersecurity and a supportive ecosystem is essential to ensure sustainable development in the digital age.

In the national digital transformation process, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) play a key role: they account for 97% of the total number of businesses, contribute around 20% of GDP and generate 80% of private sector jobs. They are therefore an essential force in maintaining the dynamism and stability of the economy. Digital transformation can only be fully effective if this sector successfully transforms itself.

To accelerate this process, on March 16, 2026, the government adopted Decision No. 433/QĐ-TTg, approving the digital transformation program for SMEs for the period 2026-2030. The aim is to support at least 50. 000 companies, of which 300. 000 will adopt digital technology solutions, digital platforms and artificial intelligence, while developing 200 model companies in key sectors. This confirms that digital transformation, combined with cybersecurity, has become a vital factor for businesses.

However, the majority of SMEs are still encountering numerous difficulties in their transition to the digital environment, due to limited resources, a lack of technology-qualified personnel and little experience in risk management. At the same time, cyber threats are becoming increasingly sophisticated: online fraud, data leaks, malware attacks and identity theft. These incidents not only cause technical losses, but also directly affect the reputation and survival of companies.

An indispensable support ecosystem

At the "A Secure Digital Future for SMEs" Forum held in Hanoi, experts stressed that cybersecurity is an indispensable foundation for digital transformation. Without an effective protection "shield", companies risk becoming the weakest link in the digital ecosystem, with repercussions for partners and the entire value chain.

Faced with this reality, the creation of a supportive ecosystem is an urgent necessity. The state, trade associations, specialist organizations and technology companies need to cooperate to provide training, knowledge and tailored solutions to help SMEs strengthen their prevention and response capabilities. Organizations such as the National Cybersecurity Association and the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry play an important bridging role in disseminating knowledge and providing practical support.

The launch of the "Acting for a secure digital future for businesses" program at the forum is a concrete step towards raising awareness and collective action. Ensuring digital security for SMEs is not an individual responsibility, but a joint effort by the entireecosystem, enabling companies to succeed in their digital transformation and grow sustainably in the digital economy.

Source: lecourrier.vn/