Post by : Shakul

Vietnam is moving toward the development of a comprehensive “silver economy” ecosystem as the government seeks to unlock the vast potential of its growing elderly population. Speaking at a national conference in Hanoi, Deputy Prime Minister Pham Thi Thanh Tra emphasized that older citizens should be viewed not only as beneficiaries of social welfare programs but also as valuable contributors to the country’s future development.

The conference marked the 85th anniversary of the Traditional Day of Vietnamese Elderly People and honored outstanding senior citizens for their contributions to patriotic movements and community development between 2016 and 2026. Addressing delegates from across the country, the Deputy Prime Minister highlighted the important role elderly people have played throughout Vietnam’s history in nation-building, social development, and preserving cultural values.

Pham Thi Thanh Tra noted that Vietnam is experiencing rapid population aging while simultaneously undergoing major transformations driven by digital technology, artificial intelligence, green growth, and the circular economy. In this changing environment, she stressed the need to shift from a traditional care-focused approach toward a model that combines protection, care, and empowerment for older citizens.

According to government data, more than nine million elderly Vietnamese remain actively engaged in labor, business, agriculture, community leadership, and social activities. Many continue to contribute to economic growth, local governance, dispute resolution, cultural preservation, and the education of younger generations. Their experience, wisdom, and leadership remain important national assets.

The Deputy Prime Minister called on ministries, local governments, and relevant organizations to accelerate research and development of products and services tailored to an aging society. She encouraged the creation of opportunities that allow seniors to continue working, mentoring younger workers, providing professional advice, transferring skills, and participating in entrepreneurship and business activities.

Vietnam also plans to strengthen healthcare services, long-term care systems, rehabilitation programs, and community-based support networks for older adults. Authorities aim to expand cultural, educational, and lifelong learning opportunities while improving both material and spiritual well-being for elderly citizens across the country.

The government believes that developing a strong silver economy can become an important driver of sustainable growth while improving quality of life for millions of seniors. Officials emphasized that elderly citizens possess valuable knowledge, credibility, and life experience that can help shape Vietnam’s development journey in the years ahead. The conference also recognized 169 outstanding senior citizens and awarded the Third-Class Labor Medal to the Central Office of the Vietnam Association of the Elderly for its contributions to elderly welfare and development.

#Economy #Vietnam #social #Human