As techno-nationalism reshapes global trade, Vietnam—like other middle-tier economies—must operate in an increasingly politicised and fragmented environment. Tariffs, export controls, and restrictions on AI, semiconductors, and critical minerals are no longer abstract policy issues; they are now board-level strategic risks. 

In this session, Alex Capri, author of Techno-Nationalism, explores how Vietnam can sustain growth without being forced to choose sides amid intensifying US–China tensions, and the role multinational companies play in shaping outcomes. A former Partner-in-Charge of KPMG’s Asia Pacific Trade & Customs Practice, Alex has advised governments and multinationals across Asia for over two decades and currently teaches at the National University of Singapore, following an early career with the U.S. Department of the Treasury.