During a reception on the afternoon of July 22, 2026, for a delegation from the International Energy and Technology Development Support Organization (IETDSO) led by Dr. Seiki Soramoto, President and CEO, Deputy Minister Le Xuan Dinh affirmed that nuclear energy, including SMRs, is among the fields of special interest for Vietnam.
Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Le Xuan Dinh receives Dr. Seiki Soramoto, President and CEO of IETDSO.
According to the Deputy Minister, SMR represents an emerging technology that offers opportunities for latecomer countries to participate in research, technology transfer, and gradual mastery of the field. However, SMR deployment also poses strict requirements regarding technological maturity, regulatory capacity, nuclear safety, licensing procedures, and workforce capability.
Viet Nam has incorporated nuclear power, encompassing both large-scale and small-scale reactors, into its national power development orientation.
The country's atomic energy development and application strategy also identifies both large-scale and small-scale nuclear power models. Furthermore, the amended Law on Atomic Energy, passed in 2025, has added provisions on state management and technical criteria related to SMRs.
Deputy Minister Le Xuan Dinh requested Japanese experts to share knowledge, expertise, and proven research outcomes, thereby assisting Viet Nam in building an appropriate legal framework, safety management system, and licensing procedures.
In response, Dr. Seiki Soramoto emphasized that safety and regulatory frameworks are two key issues requiring special attention in nuclear power development. Japan stands ready to share practical lessons, experience in setting standards and technical regulations, and nuclear safety management practices.
Deputy Minister Le Xuan Dinh and delegates in a group photo.
The Japanese experts proposed launching a joint research program with Viet Nam, combining SMR technology research with training programs for young Vietnamese officials and scientists. The cooperation aims to help Viet Nam incrementally enhance its capacity in research, design, management, and technology implementation.
Highly appreciating this proposal, Deputy Minister Le Xuan Dinh reaffirmed that the Ministry of Science and Technology will prioritize reviewing and supporting specific cooperative programs between IETDSO and specialized Vietnamese entities, particularly joint research and human resource training activities in the SMR field./.
