VN — VnExpress
Billion-dollar opportunity in low-altitude aircraft and the challenge of commercialization
Drones2 min read
Vietnamese experts say low-altitude flying, such as drones (UAVs), could be worth billions of dollars. But the country needs clear laws, more local technology, and real business uses before these projects can make money.
What happened
At a seminar in Ho Chi Minh City on October 27, experts talked about the "low-altitude economy." This means business done in the air below 1,000 meters, and sometimes up to 5,000 meters. The main tools are drones and other flying machines, along with the systems that run them. The speakers said the field needs better laws, more home-grown technology, and real-world tests that turn into real products.
Key numbers
- The global drone service market could reach 128 billion USD by 2030.
- Vietnam's drone service market could reach 10 billion USD by 2035.
- By 2045, the low-altitude economy is expected to add 1.5% to GDP (the total value of goods and services a country makes in a year).
- The target is to have at least 85% local production in this field by 2045.
- More than 3,000 farm drones are already used in the Mekong Delta, covering about 1.5 million hectares.
Background
Vietnam's leaders have said that low-altitude airspace is a national resource. It must be protected for national security, data safety, and the protection of borders, seas, and big cities. The country plans to run three national flight test zones and at least one national drone research and test center by 2030. Farming is already a strong example. Drones are used to plant seeds, water crops, and spray plant medicine.
Why it matters
Experts warn that new technology alone is not enough. Businesses only keep using a product if it solves a real problem and earns money. Vietnam also has limited resources, so it must choose which uses to focus on. Safe equipment, clear rules for approval, and controlled testing are key steps to turn this idea into real income.
What to watch
- Whether Vietnam turns its policy goals into clear, working rules.
- Whether approval steps for drone flights become faster and more open.
- Whether the three national flight test zones and the research center are built by 2030.
- Whether local makers of parts and software join global supply chains.
- Which uses, such as precision farming, infrastructure checks, logistics, healthcare, and digital maps, grow the fastest.
Glossary
- GDP
- Gross domestic product, the total value of goods and services a country produces in one year.