On October 1, 2025, at the National Innovation Center (NIC), the Ministry of Science and Technology, in coordination with the Ministry of Finance, organized the 2025 National Innovation Day and announced the results of the Provincial Innovation Index (PII) 2025…
The PII Index has been officially implemented since 2023, inspired by the Global Innovation Index (GII). The index consists of 7 pillars, 18 indicator groups, and 52 component indicators, divided into two main blocks: input and output. The input block includes pillars on institutions, human resources and research, infrastructure, enterprise development, and knowledge connectivity. The output block consists of two pillars: knowledge, creativity, and technology products, along with the socio-economic impacts of innovation.
For Hue, strengths were recognized in institutions and science-technology human resources. The system of universities and research institutes in the city provides a large pool of scientific labor, while local policies have supported startups and innovation, creating favorable conditions for research and development. In the infrastructure pillar, Hue has made significant progress with digital infrastructure, open data development, and technology applications in e-government. Enterprise development has also improved, with many young businesses entering fields such as technology, smart tourism, and creative cultural products.
In the output block, Hue scored 47.23 points, reflecting the transformation of inputs into concrete products. Numerous patents and useful solutions have been registered, alongside technology applications in education, healthcare, agriculture, and tourism. Typical local products such as traditional medicine, handicrafts, and Hue cuisine have been upgraded with technological elements, enhancing their value.
Compared to other leading localities, Hanoi maintains a strong advantage in research manpower, R&D spending, and the number of patents and solutions. Ho Chi Minh City stands out in its startup ecosystem and tech enterprise development. Quang Ninh is highly regarded for linking innovation with the digital economy and sustainable development. Hai Phong is notable for high-tech industries, logistics services, and innovation in production. Hue is recognized for institutional improvements, developing science-technology human resources, and gradually creating innovative products with practical applications in daily life.
In the North Central region, the 2025 PII results show clear differentiation. Hue City leads the region, ranking 5th nationwide with 49.37 points. Thanh Hoa scored 41.06 (ranked 17th); Nghe An scored 37.16 (22nd); Ha Tinh scored 34.69 (26th); Quang Tri scored 34.09 (28th). Hue’s significant lead over other localities affirms its pioneering role in innovation within the region.
According to the Ministry of Science and Technology, the 2025 PII was built on principles of objectivity and transparency, using data from central ministries, local authorities, and relevant organizations. It is a scientific tool to assess the level of innovation development in each locality, helping governments identify strengths and weaknesses to design suitable policies and improve competitiveness.
Not only attracting domestic attention, the PII has also gained international recognition. During his visit to Vietnam last week, World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO) Director General Daren Tang highlighted that Vietnam has long been a testing ground for new initiatives, including the PII. He noted that this initiative has inspired some countries, with India already adopting the model, while Cuba and Brazil have also shown interest.
