Intel eyes shifting more production to Vietnam  

U.S. chipmaker Intel plans to shift its assembly, packaging, and testing operations from its Costa Rica facility to potential markets such as Vietnam, said Kenneth Tse, general director of Intel Products Vietnam.

This is part of Intel’s ongoing global strategic transition and adjustments to optimize its manufacturing operations, thus enhancing its efficiency and competitiveness, Tse told Chairman of the HCMC People’s Committee Nguyen Van Duoc on Friday.

The exec called on local authorities to help with equipment operation licensing and ensure air freight security during the import of production lines to the Saigon Hi-Tech Park where Intel Products Vietnam (IPV) is located.

Earlier this month, Intel began recruiting additional staff in Vietnam through the end of 2025, mainly production technicians. IPV said the move is part of efforts to prepare its workforce for manufacturing expansion. However, the company has not disclosed the number of new hires or the timeline for the new production lines to begin operation.

According to Tse, the Vietnam plant is Intel’s largest assembly and testing facility, accounting for more than half of its global output and employing over 6,000 workers. The facility has adopted new technologies, including Intel’s most advanced 18A chip line.

After nearly 20 years of operation in Vietnam, IPV has exported more than 4 billion units, contributing over $100 billion to Vietnam’s export turnover as of Q2/2025.

For his part, Duoc said Intel’s presence at the Saigon Hi-Tech Park stands out as a highlight in attracting high-quality foreign investment, creating jobs, and fostering the spread of scientific, technological, and innovation capabilities across Vietnam.

The city places special emphasis on attracting high-quality external resources, particularly capital, technology, advanced management, and expertise from leading global corporations such as Intel, he noted.

Duoc expressed hope that IPV would become an outstanding center for packaging and testing, where Intel’s most complex and highest-value products are completed and launched.

He pledged to further facilitate Intel’s operations, contributing to the realization of sustainable development, digital economy, and high-tech goals, and enhancing Vietnam’s and HCMC’s global standing.