Hanoi scored 62.86 points to claim the top spot in Vietnam's Provincial Innovation Index (PII) for 2024.

At a foreign-invested semiconductor company in Hanoi. Photo: Le Nam/The Hanoi Times

Introduced by the Ministry of Science and Technology, the PII evaluates the innovation capabilities of 63 provinces and cities nationwide. It uses 52 indicators to comprehensively assess local socio-economic development, emphasizing science, technology, and innovation.

Ho Chi Minh City and Haiphong ranked second and third, securing 55.85 and 52.32 scores, respectively. The PII is designed to encourage provinces to strengthen their innovation ecosystems, contributing to the nation’s overall progress in science and technology.

Hanoi’s leadership in the index highlights its substantial investments in science and technology infrastructure. The capital hosts over 70% of Vietnam’s scientific and technological organizations, universities, and research institutes, as well as 82% of the country’s national laboratories. Additionally, more than 65% of Vietnam’s top scientists live and work in Hanoi, cementing its status as a scientific and technological advancement hub.

The city has also nurtured a thriving startup ecosystem, with over 1,000 innovative startups, representing more than 26% of the national total. In agriculture, nearly 300 high-tech production models have yielded encouraging results, further bolstering Hanoi's reputation as a leader in innovation.

The launch of the PII aligns with Vietnam's broader strategy to promote innovation at the provincial level and improve its standing in global innovation rankings. In 2024, Vietnam rose two places to rank 44th among 132 countries and economies in the Global Innovation Index, a testament to its continued efforts to drive innovation-based growth.

By securing the top position in the PII, Hanoi sets a benchmark for other provinces and cities, showcasing the vital role of innovation in fostering socio-economic development and enhancing competitiveness in the global market.

Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Hoang Minh stated that the PII results reflect the socio-economic development levels of various localities. The PII is currently the only comprehensive index offering an in-depth analysis of socio-economic development models grounded in science, technology, and innovation for each locality.

The index also highlights the strengths, weaknesses, potential opportunities, and essential conditions for science- and technology-driven socio-economic development. This tool is valuable for local leaders, enabling them to identify and implement targeted policies, strategies, and solutions for sustainable growth and innovation.