Meta will produce its next-generation Quest 3S VR and AR headsets in Vietnam, generating over 1,000 jobs. Vietnam strengthens its role in the global tech supply chain.
Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has announced that it will produce its next-generation virtual and augmented reality headsets, the Quest 3S, in Vietnam. This move is set to create over 1,000 jobs, further boosting Vietnam’s role as a key player in the global tech supply chain.
Meta Expands Production in Vietnam
At a tech conference in Hanoi, Meta’s global affairs president, Nick Clegg, made the announcement. He stated that Meta, in partnership with local firms, will manufacture the Quest 3S headsets in Vietnam. This decision aligns with Vietnam’s goal to become an attractive destination for major international investments. Clegg noted, “We will, with our local partners, be manufacturing them here in Vietnam, and we estimate that this will create well over 1,000 new jobs.”
Meta’s decision comes at a time when Vietnam is working to climb the global supply chain, transitioning from being known primarily as a low-cost destination for producing clothes, shoes, and furniture to becoming a hub for advanced technology.
Vietnam’s Growing Role in Global Tech
Vietnam has become a top contender for tech investments in recent years. The country is rapidly positioning itself as a key location for global supply chains, particularly in the technology sector. Last week, it was reported that Elon Musk’s SpaceX plans to invest $1.5 billion in Vietnam, further underlining the country’s increasing appeal to tech giants.
Vietnam’s top leader, To Lam, visited New York last month and held discussions with prominent figures from companies such as Apple, Meta, and Supermicro. He also met U.S. President Joe Biden as part of efforts to strengthen diplomatic and trade relations between the two nations.
One area where Vietnam is making significant strides is in chip manufacturing, a sector that has grown in importance as global supply chain issues and concerns about reliance on China have led many companies to seek new production bases.
Meta’s Growing Presence in Vietnam
Meta’s Facebook platform is widely popular in Vietnam, which ranks as one of the global leaders in using Messenger not just for personal communication but for business purposes. Clegg acknowledged this during his speech, stating that “Vietnam is among the global leaders in using Messenger not just to send messages to family and friends, but actually to communicate with businesses and foster trade and commerce across the country.”
However, Meta has faced challenges in Vietnam as well. The platform has been criticized by human rights organizations for complying with the government’s demands to block certain content deemed illegal. Facebook has long been used as a tool for activism in Vietnam, where independent media is banned, making the platform a vital outlet for free expression.
The Future of Vietnam’s Tech Industry
Vietnam’s focus on attracting investment from major companies like Meta signals the country’s determination to become a leading force in the global tech supply chain. By fostering partnerships with global technology firms, Vietnam aims to further develop its capabilities in high-tech industries, such as chip manufacturing and electronics.
For Meta, this shift to manufacturing in Vietnam highlights the importance of diversifying its production base, especially as the company continues to develop its virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) offerings. The Quest 3S headset, expected to be a key product in Meta’s future, will benefit from Vietnam’s growing technological infrastructure and skilled workforce.
As the global competition in the VR and AR space intensifies, Meta’s decision to manufacture its next-generation headsets in Vietnam is a strategic move that could give the company an edge in terms of both cost and production capabilities.
Meta’s decision to produce its Quest 3S headsets in Vietnam marks a significant milestone for both the company and the country. By creating over 1,000 jobs and investing in local manufacturing, Meta is helping to position Vietnam as a critical player in the global tech industry. As Vietnam continues to attract major tech investments, it is solidifying its reputation as a hub for innovation and production.