Da Nang City, Vietnam, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Tether, the issuer of USDT stablecoin, to foster innovation in its digital infrastructure and governance models. The partnership aims to position Da Nang as a leading technology and financial hub in Southeast Asia. The agreement focuses on joint research and development aimed at establishing robust blockchain-enabled systems for city operations. This initiative seeks to leverage international best practices for transparent and efficient digital governance solutions within Da Nang. Tether’s expertise, specifically its global experience with the Plan ₿ initiative in Lugano, Switzerland, will be instrumental in creating a comprehensive policy framework aligned with recognized international standards. The collaboration includes developing educational programs about blockchain technology, peer-to-peer (P2P) systems, and artificial intelligence (AI). These programs will be implemented with universities and research institutions throughout Vietnam to train local talent for managing and operating blockchain-based payment infrastructure. The goal is to increase financial inclusion and modernize transaction ecosystems in the region. The partnership builds upon Tether’s global focus on digital education through its Tether Edu initiative, which launched earlier in 2024. This MoU comes as Da Nang actively invests in digital transformation, targeting a 35-40% contribution of its Gross Regional Domestic Product (GRDP) to the digital economy by 2030. The Vietnamese government has designated Da Nang and Ho Chi Minh City as hubs for an International Financial Center starting in 2025, with a focus on regulatory sandboxes for fintech. Tether’s strategic move into Vietnam is aimed at expanding its involvement in national and municipal digital strategies globally. The partnership aligns with Tether’s global vision of building inclusive, efficient, and resilient digital ecosystems.