Minh-Ngoc Nguyen
Research Expert covering Vietnam
Internet usage in Vietnam - statistics & facts
On November 19th, 1997, Vietnam took its first step into the digital age when its citizens gained access to the internet. In less than three decades, the country has transformed into one of the most digitally connected nations in the world. As of February 2025, there were approximately 80 million internet users in Vietnam, out of a total population of 100 million—a testament to the nation’s digital progress. This evolution has been driven by widespread smartphone adoption, with mobile phones being the main internet-accessing device for most Vietnamese. From socializing and working to studying and shopping, being online has become an indispensable part of daily life.
Beyond social media, online entertainment is thriving. Video and music streaming platforms have become integral to daily routines. As the most used streaming service in Vietnam, YouTube remains the go-to platform for everything from educational content to entertainment. Meanwhile, Netflix and other local paid streaming services are rapidly gaining traction, offering Vietnamese consumers a broader selection of on-demand content. The gaming industry is another key segment of Vietnam’s digital landscape. In 2022, over 86 percent of Gen Z internet users identified as online gamers, with many embracing live streaming as a way to engage with the gaming community.
With a young, tech-savvy population, Vietnam is increasingly seen as a prime destination for tech investments. As digital transformation continues, Vietnam is poised to play a leading role in shaping Southeast Asia’s technological future.
The online habits of Vietnamese internet users
Vietnamese internet users are spending more time online than ever before, with the average internet access duration exceeding six hours per day. Among the most popular activities is social media, which has become a digital lifeline for many. In the third quarter of 2024, people spent an average of over two hours per day on social platforms in Vietnam, engaging in activities such as sharing content, messaging, and watching videos. A particularly notable trend is the rise of live streaming, with one-third of users regularly tuning in to watch influencers, brands, and entertainment content in real time.Beyond social media, online entertainment is thriving. Video and music streaming platforms have become integral to daily routines. As the most used streaming service in Vietnam, YouTube remains the go-to platform for everything from educational content to entertainment. Meanwhile, Netflix and other local paid streaming services are rapidly gaining traction, offering Vietnamese consumers a broader selection of on-demand content. The gaming industry is another key segment of Vietnam’s digital landscape. In 2022, over 86 percent of Gen Z internet users identified as online gamers, with many embracing live streaming as a way to engage with the gaming community.
Vietnam’s rapidly expanding digital economy
Vietnam’s digital economy is growing rapidly, fueled by government-backed initiatives that promote digitalization and innovation. The country has emerged as one of Southeast Asia’s fastest-growing e-commerce markets, with an expanding base of online shoppers. This surge has also driven the widespread adoption of digital payments, with methods such as e-wallets and QR codes becoming sector highlights in recent years.With a young, tech-savvy population, Vietnam is increasingly seen as a prime destination for tech investments. As digital transformation continues, Vietnam is poised to play a leading role in shaping Southeast Asia’s technological future.
