meets tradition!
As we convene for the The Autumn Economic Forum 2025, our attention turns to this year’s theme: “Breakthroughs for Shared and Ho Chi Minh City Growth.” This theme is especially relevant to Ho Chi Minh City, a metropolis in the midst of rapid transformation into a smart city and a leading technology hub in Southeast Asia. The city’s ambition - having the digital economy contribute 40% of its GRDP by 2030 -underscores its commitment to integrating science, technology, and digital transformation into every facet of governance and economic growth.
The journey from innovation to practical application extends far beyond boardrooms and high-tech zones; it is alive in the city’s streets, businesses, and cultural landmarks. As Vietnam’s tourism and hospitality sectors embrace the digital era, smart technologies such as artificial intelligence, big data, and virtual reality are reshaping how residents and visitors alike experience the city - enhancing convenience, improving efficiency, and enriching personal connections.
In the spirit of demonstrating these real-world applications, we invite you to explore how innovation is elevating two of Ho Chi Minh City’s most treasured cultural pillars: its cuisine and its heritage. These specially curated sessions will illustrate the intelligent economy in action - not as an abstract concept, but as a vivid, tangible experience.
for the Senses
"Ho Chi Minh City, a place that never sleeps, is a vibrant tapestry of old and new, where the past and present collide in a symphony of flavors. From dawn to midnight, a delectable experience awaits at every corner. It might be a robust iced milk coffee to revive you from the warmth of the afternoon, or a plate of spicy snails enjoyed under the glow of the city lights. Here, the essence of cuisine is not in elaborate recipes, but in the authenticity found in narrow alleys, the familiar calls of street vendors, and the warmth of their smiles. Follow your palate, and you will uncover the vibrant soul of the city."
Beyond its culinary delights, Ho Chi Minh City is a treasure trove of historical and cultural landmarks.