Research on digital transformation roadmap in Vietnam's coal industry towards sustainable development

Abstract

Vietnam’s coal industry plays a crucial role in ensuring national energy security, yet it is facing numerous challenges such as rising extraction costs, increasing coal imports, requirements for emission reduction, and the need to enhance occupational safety. Digital transformation (DX) is considered a strategic solution to optimize production, reduce costs, modernize management, and move towards sustainable development. This study employs PEST and SWOT analysis methods to assess both macro and internal factors influencing the digital transformation process of Vietnam’s coal sector. The results show that the industry has advantages in terms of resource endowment and strategic role, but remains constrained by outdated technology and a shortage of digital human resources. Based on this, the study proposes a three-stage digital transformation roadmap: (i) building digital infrastructure and standardizing data (2022–2025); (ii) optimizing and automating production processes (2025–2030); and (iii) establishing a smart industry based on IoT, AI, Big Data, Blockchain, and automation (post-2030). At the same time, the paper compares experiences from China, Australia, Indonesia, and Russia to derive lessons for Vietnam: setting clear targets by mine scale, prioritizing automation in hazardous operations, establishing digital control centers, and investing in industrial network infrastructure. The findings hold both scientific and practical significance in guiding the coal sector’s digital transformation, contributing to energy security assurance, and achieving the national commitment of net-zero emissions by 2050.