Vietnam Stresses National Digital Architecture Framework as Key Governance Tool for Digital Transformation
Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: Deputy Prime Minister Hồ Quốc Dũng has called for Vietnam’s National Digital Architecture Framework to be treated as a governance tool for digital transformation, with its implementation focused on improving connectivity, data sharing, interoperability and the common use of digital components.
Chairing a conference at the Government Office on Tuesday to disseminate and implement Decision No. 1425/QĐ-TTg, issued by the Prime Minister on July 29 on the promulgation of the National Digital Architecture Framework (Version 1.0), Dũng stressed that implementation must be substantive, synchronised and effective rather than merely formal or compliance-driven.
He said ministries, sectors and localities must clearly define their responsibilities and ensure connectivity, interoperability, data sharing and the common use of digital components in accordance with the national framework. Cybersecurity, information safety and data protection must also remain priorities.
“The architecture framework must be regarded as a governance tool for digital transformation,” Dũng said, stressing that implementation should be assessed by its ability to reduce duplicated investment, conserve resources, strengthen security and improve the quality of services provided to citizens and businesses.
The Deputy Prime Minister urged agencies across the political system to follow a “three no’s” approach: not leaving implementation entirely to IT departments, not treating it merely as a compliance exercise, and not waiting until the last minute to take action.
He called for implementation to remain closely aligned with practical requirements and make maximum use of existing systems and results that have demonstrated effectiveness. Any new investment must be necessary, compatible with the national architecture and avoid duplication.
Dũng further emphasised that cybersecurity, data protection, personal data, privacy and state secrets must be safeguarded from the design stage throughout implementation.
Under the Prime Minister’s decision, agencies and organisations are required to complete new digital architecture frameworks or review, update and promulgate their existing frameworks by January 29, 2027.
The Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) was tasked with finalising and issuing guidelines within its authority for developing, updating and maintaining digital architecture frameworks for agencies and organisations.
The MoST will also coordinate with the Ministry of Public Security (MPS) and relevant agencies to establish methodologies for assessing and monitoring compliance, key performance indicators, assessment criteria, reporting mechanisms, checklists and necessary forms.
In addition, the ministry will develop a common framework of standards, technical regulations and guidelines aimed at ensuring nationwide interoperability, integration and cybersecurity.
The Ministry of Public Security was assigned to lead the development and updating of the National Data Architecture Framework, the national data governance and management framework, the Common Data Dictionary and the National Cybersecurity Architecture Framework. These frameworks are to remain consistent with the National Digital Architecture Framework and comply with relevant legislation.
The MPS will also review existing legal and technical materials and provide guidance to facilitate implementation, while developing a roadmap for completing areas that remain unfinished.
Provincial-level People’s Committees were instructed to complete new Digital Government Architecture Frameworks or review, update and promulgate existing frameworks by January 29, 2027.
For localities established following the reorganisation or merger of administrative units, Dũng called for priority to be given to consolidating, integrating and continuing to use existing systems. Authorities were also asked to synchronously review data, user accounts, connectivity, contracts, assets, infrastructure and transition plans to prevent disruptions to government operations and public services.
