Vietnam Media Pioneer Eyes Data Ecosystem Role After 35 Years of Reform

In 1991, as Vietnam embarked on its initial economic reforms, the concept of a market economy was largely unfamiliar. It was in this environment that Thoi bao Kinh te Viet Nam, now known as Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam—the publisher of Vietnam Economic Times and VnEconomy—was founded. Its mission was to disseminate economic knowledge, foster new modes of thinking, and support the country's development. Thirty-five years later, the institution is reflecting on its legacy and charting a new course to navigate the challenges of the digital era.

A Distinctive Voice in a New Economy

From its inception, the publication established a unique identity. In an era often characterized by one-way information delivery, its articles went beyond simple reporting. They served to introduce readers to the fundamental principles of a market economy, analyze real-world economic developments, and share insights from international experiences.

This approach proved invaluable as Vietnam transitioned from a centrally-planned system to a socialist-oriented market economy. A broad readership turned to Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam and its associated publications not just for news, but for a deeper understanding of the forces reshaping their country. The organization’s credibility was built organically on this public demand for a high-quality economic forum, positioning it as a trusted companion throughout the reform, or Doi Moi, period.

The publication was among the first media outlets to popularize market-economy concepts at a time when Vietnam’s private sector was nascent. It introduced a wide audience to essential ideas such as markets, competition, investment, corporate governance, and globalization, thereby not only documenting the reform process but actively helping to embed its spirit into the nation's economic fabric.

Over the past 35 years, despite evolving names, formats, and technologies, the core mission has remained constant: to serve the nation by providing reliable, in-depth, and practical economic information to the government, ministries, local authorities, the business community, and readers both in Vietnam and internationally.

A Forum for Policy and Data

Throughout Vietnam’s modern economic history—from the early reforms and its accession to the World Trade Organization to navigating global financial crises and the post-pandemic recovery—Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam has functioned as a responsible platform for economic information. It has aimed to accurately reflect economic realities, represent the voice of the business community, and contribute to policy dialogue.

A key element of its strategy has been the editorial leadership's foresight in anticipating journalistic trends. Years before data journalism became a mainstream practice, the organization recognized the critical role of data in economic reporting. In 2018, it initiated discussions with the General Statistics Office (now the National Statistics Office) to explore cooperation in building economic databases to support its work. This forward-looking vision was based on the understanding that in economics, data is the foundation for robust analysis, forecasting, and policy evaluation.

Consequently, its articles frequently integrated charts, graphs, and modern data visualizations, transforming complex statistics into accessible and compelling narratives. This fusion of journalism and data became a defining characteristic of the publication within Vietnam’s media landscape.

In collaboration with bodies such as the Central Commission for Policy and Strategy, research institutions, and various domestic and international organizations, Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam has also organized numerous high-profile economic forums. These events have created vital platforms for dialogue between policymakers, local authorities, businesses, and foreign and domestic investors.

Many significant policy recommendations have emerged from these forums, contributing to the refinement of Vietnam’s socio-economic policies. These initiatives highlight a modern journalistic role that extends beyond reporting to connecting stakeholders and creating societal value. The success of these forums lies in their ability to convene diverse participants to exchange ideas and reform initiatives, establishing the publication as a trusted convenor for policy dialogue.

This reputation is further supported by a dedicated team of journalists and a network of highly qualified contributors. Over 35 years, the organization has attracted leading economists, researchers, analysts, and experienced editors, whose intellectual capital has produced insightful reporting and analysis that has informed both policy and business decisions.

Navigating the Digital Future

As it marks its 35th year, the organization confronts a media landscape being fundamentally reshaped by the rapid ascent of artificial intelligence, the dominance of digital platforms, and fragmented information consumption habits. In this context, innovation is no longer a matter of choice but a prerequisite for maintaining relevance and leadership.

The future envisioned for Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam extends beyond its traditional role as an economic publication. The objective is to evolve into a modern media, data, and economic knowledge ecosystem. This ecosystem would serve as a hub connecting policymakers, regulators, businesses, experts, and investors, and act as a trusted gateway for economic information for both domestic and international audiences.

To realize this vision, the organization plans to continue its leadership in adopting AI, data journalism, analytics, and specialized information platforms. The goal is to create high-value knowledge products that technology alone cannot replicate. In an era where data is a strategic resource and AI is transforming information, the opportunity is to become a center for economic data, analysis, and knowledge. This involves aggregating information, forecasting trends, facilitating policy dialogue, and providing practical solutions for businesses and policymakers.

This strategic direction is aligned with supporting Vietnam’s national ambition to become a high-income, developed nation by 2045. Achieving this goal will require modern institutions, a robust private sector, and media organizations capable of shaping thought and disseminating knowledge.

The 35-year journey provides a foundation for this new chapter. With a tradition of pioneering, a spirit of innovation, and a commitment to public service, Tap chi Kinh te Viet Nam aims to continue its role in the nation's development. It remains guided by the principle that has defined its identity for decades: “Authentic Perspectives - Positive Thinking - Practical Solutions.” This philosophy represents a commitment to supporting Vietnam’s economic progress and its long-term aspirations for prosperity.

(*) Dr. Nguyen Bich Lam is the former Director General of the General Statistics Office (now the National Statistics Office under the Ministry of Finance)