E-commerce application: A pivotal mission

Speaking at the seminar “Promoting e-commerce applications: A sustainable solution for the retail sector in Da Nang” held on September 24, Deputy Director of Da Nang’s Department of Industry and Trade Nguyen Van Tru, stressed that boosting e-commerce in retail is one of the city’s core missions in the journey toward a smart, modern, and livable urban hub.

He emphasized that embracing digital technology is vital to adapting to new consumption trends, optimizing distribution networks and enhancing connectivity between producers, retailers and consumers.

At the seminar, Vice Chairman of Da Nang People’s Committee Tran Chi Cuong underlined that for the retail sector to develop sustainably amid deeper international economic integration and intensifying competition. It requires the concerted efforts of multiple stakeholders from government agencies, professional associations, enterprises and cooperatives to household businesses and small traders.

He also called for stronger coordination among municipal departments to ensure transparent online transactions, improve tax management, and safeguard consumer rights. Furthermore, he urged business associations to continue serving as a bridge, supporting enterprises and small traders in their digital transformation journey.

Building an e-commerce ecosystem

According to Nguyen Huu Tuan, Director of the Center for E-commerce and Digital Technology Development under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, presented concrete solutions to foster e-commerce adoption and promote sustainable retail growth in Da Nang.

Businesses and traders should swiftly establish online storefronts on e-commerce platforms, while also participating in Da Nang’s local e-commerce marketplace to leverage regional advantages.

He also highlighted the importance of modern logistics and delivery infrastructure, alongside safe digital payment systems, to encourage cashless transactions and build consumer trust.

To shape a healthy e-commerce ecosystem, Nguyen Huu Tuan recommended strengthening business linkages through trade fairs and industry events, expanding regional cooperation, and partnering with major corporations to establish closed value chains.

Particularly, he pointed to the potential of artificial intelligence for personalized product recommendations and virtual reality for immersive shopping experiences as breakthrough directions for retail development. On the policy front, he stressed the need for streamlined administrative procedures, stronger consumer protection, and the effective utilization of the 1,881 hectare Free Trade Zone to foster cross-border e-commerce and access global markets.

Nguyen Huu Tuan noted, only by integrating infrastructure, technology, human resources and supportive policies can Da Nang build a robust e-commerce ecosystem, affirming its role as a modern, innovative, and internationally connected retail hub in the years ahead.

In the first 8 months of 2025, Da Nang’s total retail sales of goods and consumer service revenue reached an estimated VND 168 trillion, a year-on-year increase of 24%. Retail sales of goods were nearly VND 92 trillion, up 16.4%; while revenues from supermarkets and trade centers were around VND 8 trillion, marking a 16.9% rise compared with the same period in 2024.