According to Deputy Trinh Thi Tu Anh, who represents Lam Dong province, Vietnam is entering an extensive energy transition period in which energy security, emissions reduction, and high growth become more urgent. In this context, she said, SMR technology matches Vietnam’s situation.

“It requires substantial resources, advanced technology, and stable supply chains. The state budget alone will be insufficient to build a modern nuclear industry ecosystem. Mobilizing both state-owned and private enterprises will diversify capital sources, spread risks, and accelerate innovation,” said Tu Anh.

NA deputies agreed that SMR technology is appropriate at this stage, but its development must be safe, responsible, and transparent. Encouraging business participation, they said, doesn’t mean opening the door completely; the State must retain a leading role.

Deputy Nguyen Thi Lan of Hanoi said, “Vietnam should focus on research, workforce training, and mastering the technology, and not expect short-term economic returns. Only when Vietnam has accumulated sufficient experience, established robust safety oversight, completed a legal framework, and mastered the core technologies should it expand deployment. A phased roadmap—from small modules to larger ones—is consistent with international practice and Vietnam’s realities.”

Several deputies said that encouraging enterprises to invest in SMRs could pave the way for a domestic modular manufacturing industry, which would generate high-quality jobs and elevate Vietnam’s scientific and technological standing.