Digital infrastructure takes the lead

Recognizing that infrastructure must move one step ahead as a foundational and forward-looking factor requiring early investment, Điện Biên province has focused resources on building a synchronized telecommunications and transmission network. This network serves as a backbone for the development of digital government, the digital economy, and digital society. The province has directed postal and telecommunications enterprises to coordinate closely in expanding network coverage and improving service quality, particularly in remote and hard-to-reach areas. As a result, telecommunications infrastructure now covers most residential areas, gradually addressing connectivity gaps.

Currently, the province has 1,171 mobile base transceiver stations (BTS), covering 98% of residential areas; 767 3G stations, reaching 100% of communes and wards; and 1,161 4G stations, which form the backbone of mobile internet services. The rollout of new technologies such as 5G has created favorable conditions for the development of high speed data services. Across the province, 111 dedicated data transmission connection points for Party and State agencies are in operation, ensuring information security and accuracy in leadership and administrative decision making. The shift from traditional infrastructure to modern digital infrastructure provides a vital stepping stone for operating shared provincial platforms.

A major highlight in infrastructure investment is the establishment of the provincial data center based on cloud computing technology. This centralized and synchronized infrastructure replaces the previous model of separate servers at individual agencies, optimizing operating costs while enhancing cybersecurity. The data center supports all shared software systems and digital platforms of the province, ensuring secure data storage and readiness for integration with national databases.

Notably, the deployment of the smart city Intelligent Operations Center (IOC) platform has provided a powerful tool for data-driven leadership and governance in real time. The IOC system integrates 12 key service groups and databases, connects with the National Population Database, and manages 307 integrated surveillance cameras for public security and urban traffic monitoring, traffic density analysis and forecasting, and facial recognition, significantly supporting public order and safety. These efforts have helped improve the effectiveness of governance at all levels. Most recently, the province established and launched the Điện Biên provincial Innovation Center. This is a necessary step toward creating a strong focal point to implement cross-sectoral tasks and promote the province’s innovation ecosystem.

Vũ Hoàng Thiên, Deputy Director of the provincial Innovation Center, said: “In the coming period, the Center will serve as a bridge and a one-stop support hub, helping businesses and citizens easily access innovation and digital transformation. Through consultancy programs, training, co-working spaces, technology infrastructure, and shared digital platforms, the Center will support enterprises in testing and applying new technologies, while helping residents enhance digital skills and access digital services and utilities. This will lay a foundation for the development of the digital economy and digital society in the province.”

Synchronized technology determines digital transformation success

Thanks to sustained investment in technology infrastructure, Điện Biên province has achieved notable digital transformation outcomes. Digital social infrastructure has expanded rapidly, with 75% of residents owning smartphones. Applications such as Điện Biên Smart and VNeID have become indispensable tools in daily life. In healthcare, 100% of hospitals and medical centers have implemented electronic medical records, enabling systematic and seamless patient data management. In education, the application of artificial intelligence and online learning platforms has contributed to improved training quality.

In building digital government, the document and workflow management system is fully interconnected across all levels of government. Digitally signed electronic documents account for 98%, while 99% of business-related administrative procedures are available online. Paperless meeting solutions are regularly used, helping save time and state budget resources.

The digital economy has begun to make tangible contributions to provincial economic growth, accounting for an estimated 14% of GRDP in 2025. The most visible shift has occurred in agriculture and e-commerce. Notably, 100% of OCOP producers have promoted their products on e-commerce platforms and social networks.

Building on these achievements, Điện Biên province aims to eliminate remaining “signal blind spots” in villages without access to the national power grid through alternative energy solutions or coordinated grid investment. The province will continue expanding 5G network infrastructure in central areas and key tourist destinations to support digital economic development. The IOC system will be upgraded with more advanced data analytics features and deeper integration with the National Population Database to enable more accurate social management. Efforts will also focus on completing the Điện Biên provincial Digital Architecture Framework, providing a basis for future infrastructure investment decisions.