A Japanese company head sees a big change in Vietnam after 20 years.

The head of Meiko Hightech said research is now happening in Vietnam, not just overseas.

Companies are moving research to Vietnam where Vietnamese and Japanese engineers work together.

Some products are researched and developed in Vietnam, then made in Japan and China.

Meiko has five factories in Vietnam and is building two more, with total investment over $1.6 billion.

The company is researching smart factory solutions, including automation and AI.

Vietnam should rethink how it attracts high-tech investment, said the Meiko head.

Building a skilled workforce and innovation ecosystem will attract more foreign investment.

The shift in research is creating new demands for talent.

Vietnam has many talented AI engineers but they need more opportunities.

Cooperation with foreign companies can help Vietnamese engineers participate in big projects.

Japanese businesses are strong in hardware, while Vietnamese companies are strong in software.

The two sides can combine strengths to develop AI platforms for Japan.

Universities must evolve to develop a workforce that meets new demands.

Businesses should be involved in designing academic curricula from the start.

Without company involvement, graduates may struggle to find jobs.

Training programs need to align with the needs of companies from Japan and other markets.

The challenge is to create an environment where engineers can work on real projects.

This is essential for Vietnam to move beyond manufacturing and into the technology value chain.

The transition needs to be turned into concrete projects with clear objectives.

The two countries should have specific projects to move forward together.

Vietnam's advantage in attracting investment is no longer just about labor costs, but about connecting talent and businesses.

Vietnam can create technology products by connecting talent, research, businesses, and education.