Hanoi's district transforms itself through people-driven digitization

THE HANOI TIMES — Phu Xuyen, a rural district on the outskirts of Hanoi, is now emerging as a symbol of grassroots digital transformation.

Over the past two years, the district has empowered its people to embrace technology, e-commerce, and AI as tools for progress, rather than relying on external capital.

From farmers to digital pioneers

According to Le Van Binh, Chairman of the Phu Xuyen People’s Committee, this transformation stems from both technology and people—"digital pioneers" revitalizing traditional craft villages, expanding their reach, boosting output, and connecting rural culture with the modern marketplace.

Binh has led the district’s digital revolution, awakening the ambition, confidence, and digital skills of residents.

“Once people dare to step outside their comfort zones, every door will open,” he said.

Binh launched hands-on digital training using smartphones, video software, and AI tools to teach locals how to do. It turns skepticism into enthusiasm.

Nguyen Huu Hung, a leather shoemaker in Phu Yen Commune (before the merger), shifted from local market sales to livestream videos with music after joining training courses.

Even veteran artisans are adapting, like Nguyen Van Vinh, a woodcarver from Quang Ha Commune now makes videos, posts content, and answers customer questions online thanks to classes.

Phu Xuyen’s e-commerce revenues reached over VND4 trillion (US$157 million) in the first five months of 2025, surpassing the full-year target by 33% and rocketing 264% year-on-year.

Digital transformation on three pillars

Le Van Binh implemented the district’s digital strategy: digital government, digital economy, and digital society.

The district now uses centralized document management software, digital signatures, and electronic payments.

It leads Hanoi with 100% cashless payments, bank transfers for pensions, and welfare.

According to Nguyen Xuan Quynh, Head of the district’s Division of Culture, Information, and Science, the locality cultivates a digital citizen culture through AI applications for daily life, governance, and commerce, with over 4,000 teachers trained to use e-libraries, e-gradebooks, and locally developed online courses. 

 The district also builds an inclusive digital community by opening free bank accounts for the elderly and vulnerable, and distributing digital signatures via VNPT and Viettel for broader online access.

The healthcare sector has digitized health records of 98.3% of the population, linked ID cards with insurance, and made all cashless payments.

In 2024, Phu Xuyen was recognized as one of Hanoi’s top eight pioneer districts in digital transformation.

With a two-tier local government system, Phu Xuyen District was divided into four new communes: Phuong Duc, Dai Xuyen, Chuyen My, and Phu Xuyen. However, their population continues to embrace digital tools to shape their futures.

"With concerted effort, Phu Xuyen will soon shine as a model for digital transformation and e-commerce, enhancing traditional craft village values," said Chairman Binh.