Event Overview
On 14 November 2025, UOB FinLab, in collaboration with Acclime Vietnam and EuroCham Vietnam, hosted Smart Manufacturing Connect: Navigating Innovation, Trade & AI Frontiers at the Caravelle Hotel Saigon. Building on the momentum from September’s UOB FinLab 2025: Digital Gateway to Global Markets, this session convened industry leaders and subject-matter experts to discuss how manufacturers can navigate global trade disruptions, harness AI technologies, and implement smarter financial strategies to remain competitive. The event provided actionable insights and fostered partnerships that will accelerate Vietnam’s transition toward a more advanced and resilient manufacturing ecosystem.
Opening Remarks
Mr. Andre de Jong, Board Member of EuroCham Vietnam, opened the event by introducing the theme and framing its core purpose: exploring innovation, trade, and AI in the manufacturing sector. He emphasised the importance of bringing together industry leaders and experts for meaningful dialogue and highlighted one of the day’s key sessions—the panel discussion focused on practical strategies for transformation. His remarks set a clear and purposeful tone for the discussions ahead.
Vietnam’s Manufacturing Outlook
Mr. Rizwan Khan, Managing Partner at Acclime Vietnam, delivered an in-depth analysis of Vietnam’s evolving manufacturing landscape amid tariff challenges and shifting trade dynamics. He noted that the country is moving beyond low-cost assembly toward high-value, technology-driven production, supported by foreign investment and Industry 4.0 adoption.
Mr. Rizwan also outlined upcoming legal and tax reforms for 2026, including incentives for high-tech and green projects and compliance with global minimum tax standards—critical considerations for long-term investors. He further stressed the growing importance of data protection and privacy regulations, which will influence how businesses deploy AI and digital solutions securely. Robust governance and regulatory agility, and strong data protection frameworks, he concluded, will be essential for mitigating tariff pressures and safeguarding digital operations.
Financial Agility and Digital Banking
Ms. Pham Van Khanh, Country Head of Transaction Banking at UOB Vietnam, highlighted Vietnam’s attractiveness for businesses seeking supply chain diversification. She introduced UOB Infinity, a comprehensive digital banking platform that integrates cash management, trade services, and supply chain financing under one login.
Through its FSCM feature, UOB Infinity enables businesses to digitally connect with supply chain partners across Vietnam, ASEAN, and Greater China—streamlining trade documentation and financing requests at every stage. “This reflects UOB’s commitment to ASEAN connectivity and our ambition to be the leading cross-border trade bank in the region,” Ms. Khanh affirmed.
AI as a Catalyst for Transformation
Mr. Loi Tran, Senior Partner Solution Sales Manager at Microsoft, explored how AI is redefining manufacturing and business operations. He described a shift from incremental efficiency gains to a future of autonomous systems and intelligent agents working alongside humans.
AI, he emphasized, is not about replacing human ambition but amplifying it—enabling organizations to overcome workforce gaps, supply chain complexities, and accelerate innovation. His success framework focused on enhancing employee experiences, reinventing customer engagement, and driving breakthrough innovation.
Building Vietnam’s Smart Manufacturing Ecosystem
Moderated by Mr. Andre de Jong, the panel featured experts from UOB Vietnam, Acclime Vietnam, CBRE Vietnam, and Microsoft’s AI partner Datatyk. The discussion centered on strategies to strengthen supply chain resilience, ensure compliance, and leverage technology for growth.
The panel concluded that Vietnam’s manufacturing future will be shaped by innovation, AI adoption, compliance readiness, and financial agility. These pillars will enable businesses to move beyond incremental improvements and create a connected ecosystem that fosters resilience, accelerates growth, and positions manufacturers to compete confidently in an increasingly complex global market.
We extend our sincere gratitude to our exceptional speakers, insightful panelists, and dedicated moderator for sharing their expertise. A special thank you to our valued partners for their unwavering support in making this event a resounding success.
Our Commitment
This event reinforces UOB FinLab’s dedication to empowering businesses on their journey toward digitalization and sustainability. Through strategic insights and collaborative partnerships, we remain committed to helping enterprises embrace transformation and thrive in the global marketplace. Together, we aim to build a resilient, inclusive, and sustainable ecosystem that transcends borders and drives long-term growth.
Beyond the thought-provoking discussions, the event concluded with dynamic networking opportunities where industry leaders, experts, and participants exchanged ideas and explored potential collaborations. These interactions underscored the spirit of innovation and partnership that will propel Vietnam’s manufacturing sector into a smarter, more connected future.
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