Located in the center of the Bay Area, one of the world's leading centers of technology, San Francisco is recognized as a global symbol of invention and the nation's most vibrant entrepreneurial scene. The city has a very strong knowledge-based economy that is globally competitive, with a GDP of about USD 250 billion (almost one-fourth of the total regional economic output). Known as the "AI Capital of the World," San Francisco is home to advanced research facilities and international firms, with over 20% of its workforce employed in the field. Strong venture capital flows are drawn to this ecosystem; in 2025 alone USD $134 billion was secured, greater than any US state or city. Furthermore, tourism stands as a vital economic pillar, with visitor spending reaching USD 14.2 billion in 2025, generating employment for over 55,000 workers.
Former Vice Chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee and the Late Mayor of San Francisco Edwin Lee sign a friendly cooperation document for the 2015-2020 period. - Photo: Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee Online Newspaper
Beyond numbers, the two cities' collaborative accomplishments have been effective in the areas of urban planning, technology, and economics. Ho Chi Minh City's current enlarged sustainable development agenda has benefited greatly from comparisons to San Francisco's flagship projects, such as the Caltrain Railyard redevelopment and the SF Gateway high-tech manufacturing model. As a "Pacific Gateway," San Francisco and Ho Chi Minh City are working together to build a cooperative ecology that is sustainable. Ho Chi Minh City is the perfect setting for US businesses to realize ground-breaking solutions in smart city projects and digital transformation, while San Francisco is the world's leading center for technology and innovation.
The two cities' collaboration is opening up extremely attractive prospects and fostering an environment where businesses and investors can work together to fully realize potential in five key areas:
1. Digital Technology and Artificial Intelligence (AI): Fostering a joint research community, facilitating expert exchanges, and optimizing the digital transformation ecosystem to deploy pioneering technological achievements into urban governance practices.
2. Finance and Fintech: Collaborating on sharing operational experiences for international financial centers and developing digital payment solutions and financial technology (fintech) in accordance with global standards.
3. Logistics and High-Tech Manufacturing: Enhancing cooperation in smart manufacturing spatial planning and implementing modern logistics models and green technologies to upgrade future urban infrastructure.
4. Innovation and Startups: Building networking channels between venture capital funds of both cities and supporting startup enterprises in accessing international capital and global markets.
5. Smart Cities and Housing Development: Partnering in the transfer of urban redevelopment models, social housing planning, and integrated commercial spaces within central areas.