E-commerce, also known informally as online shopping, has become an essential part of modern life. With the “catalyst” of COVID-19 and the rise of e-commerce platforms like Shopee, Tiki, and Lazada, global consumers have gradually shifted from traditional to online shopping. This shift not only brings convenience to consumers but also presents a significant opportunity for the e-commerce industry.
1. Growth Potential of the E-commerce Industry in Vietnam
At the Orientation Day for first-year E-commerce students (K24) at the NTT Institute of International Education (NIIE) – Nguyen Tat Thanh University, guest speaker Truong Phuong Thoa, Director of the Southern E-commerce Center for OSB Group, a certified Alibaba representative in Vietnam with over 12 years of experience in online export consulting, highlighted the dynamic growth of e-commerce in Vietnam. According to her, the Vietnamese e-commerce market reached $20.5 billion in 2023, an increase of 25% from the previous year. This growth rate has positioned Vietnam as one of the fastest-growing e-commerce markets in Southeast Asia.
According to data from the Department of E-commerce and Digital Economy, online shoppers in Vietnam reached 61 million in 2023. This impressive growth has driven the average shopping expenditure per person to $300 annually. With continued growth comes increased demand for a skilled workforce, particularly in positions related to e-commerce platform management, data analysis, and information system development.
A study by Google, Temasek, and Bain & Company reveals that Vietnam’s e-commerce market will continue to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 22% from 2022 to 2025, with the gross merchandise value (GMV) expected to reach $24 billion by 2025. This opens numerous development opportunities for businesses and e-commerce service providers.
“There is a very rapid increase in demand for e-commerce talent in Vietnam, and it is only set to accelerate,” said Nguyen Thanh Hung, former President of the Vietnam E-commerce Association. From the perspective of employers and businesses, the e-commerce industry is facing a significant shortage of talent. A survey by the Department of E-commerce and Digital Economy found that only 30% of employees in the industry have formal training in e-commerce, while the remaining 70% come from related fields such as commerce, business administration, and information technology.
A representative from Lazada shared that the demand for specialized talent is not limited to e-commerce platforms; retail businesses undergoing digital transformation also need specialized staff to execute their initiatives. Although the rate of training for e-commerce talent at universities has increased by 30%, it still does not match the “hot” growth of the industry.
2. International Standard Program in E-commerce: Opportunities for Future Learning and Employment
In the context of a booming e-commerce market, training and supplying a quality workforce is essential to ensure the industry’s sustainable development. The International Standard Bachelor’s Program in E-commerce at NIIE is among the top choices for young people pursuing a career in this field.
The International Standard Bachelor’s Program at NIIE is built upon more than 15 years of experience partnering with world-class universities and businesses. Students are equipped with comprehensive expertise in e-commerce, covering various aspects from the business environment (law, economic theory, taxation) and e-commerce management (platform management, online payments) to digital platform development (website and information system development) and online business (logistics, digital marketing). This knowledge not only strengthens students’ theoretical understanding but also hones practical skills to meet the increasingly stringent demands of employers.
A unique feature of the program is its emphasis on hands-on learning through real-world case studies and digital business projects, coupled with company visits and networking sessions with industry experts. Furthermore, the bilingual (English-Vietnamese) curriculum allows students to develop their language proficiency, especially in English for e-commerce. English is integrated across six levels, from basic to B2 (equivalent to IELTS 5.5 – 6.0), ensuring that students have the language skills necessary for an international work environment.
In addition, students will cultivate essential soft skills such as communication, teamwork, and critical thinking. These skills are key to helping students succeed academically and equipping them to tackle challenges in the workplace.
3. Future Trends in E-commerce
E-commerce is expanding beyond online sales, integrating new trends and technologies. Innovations such as artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality/virtual reality (AR/VR), and live-stream shopping are becoming major trends, offering consumers a novel shopping experience.
Additionally, B2B e-commerce is also growing rapidly, creating opportunities for businesses to tap into the international market. Ms. Truong Phuong Thoa explained that this opportunity is not just for B2C but also B2B companies aiming to expand their market reach and increase revenue.
For graduates in e-commerce, career prospects are highly promising. Career options range from e-commerce platform management and data analysis to application development, and students can even confidently start their own businesses in the thriving e-commerce landscape. With the ongoing development of technology and consumer demand, e-commerce promises to continue creating attractive job opportunities in the future.
With its rapid growth rate and high demand for skilled labor, Vietnam is becoming one of the most promising markets in Southeast Asia. Young people passionate about technology and aspiring to build careers in e-commerce should seize this opportunity. If you’re looking for the perfect stepping stone – fully equipped with knowledge, skills, and language proficiency to confidently enter this high-potential field – consider making NIIE your choice.
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NTT INSTITUTE OF INTERNATIONAL EDUCATION – NGUYEN TAT THANH UNIVERSITY
GLOBAL LEARNING – GLOBAL SUCCESS
Address: 458/3F Nguyen Huu Tho, Tan Hung Ward, District 7, Ho Chi Minh City
Hotline: 0934 116 244 / 0938 116 244
Email: niie@ntt.edu.vn
