Vietnam’s small businesses are leading the way in artificial intelligence (AI) investment and technology adoption in the Asia-Pacific region, according to a recent survey by CPA Australia. The country’s small business landscape is experiencing a surge in digital transformation, with Vietnam ranking first among 11 Asia-Pacific economies in key technology uptake metrics.
The report highlights that 44 percent of small Vietnamese firms identified AI as their main technology investment in 2024, a significant increase from the previous year. Additionally, more than 47 percent used AI tools for business guidance, the highest in the region. E-commerce, social media, and mobile payments are also dominant in Vietnam’s small business ecosystem.
Over 91 percent of firms earned more than 10 percent of revenue from online sales, while 84 percent received significant payments via digital payment platforms like MoMo, Moca, and ZaloPay. Social media usage is also widespread, with only four percent of businesses not utilizing it for business purposes in 2024.
These digital efforts are paying off, with 88 percent of businesses reporting improved profitability due to technology investment, the highest in the region. However, as digital technologies become more integrated into operations, cybersecurity risks have increased. Vietnam’s small businesses ranked second in experiencing losses due to cyberattacks in 2024, with 60 percent reporting such incidents.
To address these risks, 62 percent of small Vietnamese businesses reviewed their cybersecurity measures in the second half of last year. Despite this, 68 percent anticipate cyberattacks in 2025, the highest among the surveyed markets. CPA Australia CEO Chris Freeland emphasized the importance of prioritizing cybersecurity to ensure sustained growth and customer trust.
Despite challenges, optimism is high among small Vietnamese firms, with 92 percent expecting growth in 2025, the highest projection among the surveyed markets. This confidence extends to expectations for Vietnam’s economy, with 93 percent of small businesses anticipating growth in 2025, well above the survey average.
The report also highlights a strong international focus among small Vietnamese firms, with overseas sales revenue expected to nearly double in 2025. This reflects rising global competitiveness despite economic uncertainties. Freeland attributes this outlook to Vietnam’s young, tech-savvy, and entrepreneurial business community, which has shown adaptability and enthusiasm for digital transformation.
The survey, conducted in November and December last year, received responses from 4,236 small businesses across 11 markets. The results underscore Vietnam’s position as a leader in AI investment and technology adoption in the Asia-Pacific region, driven by a dynamic and forward-thinking small business sector.
