Apple supplier 3M launches Hanoi center

By Luu Quy August 14, 2024 | 12:01 am PT

A disassembled smartphone demonstrating the use of 3M adhesives to connect components at the 3M Science and Technology Center in Hanoi on Aug. 12, 2024. Photo by VnExpress/Luu Quy

American adhesives producer 3M Corporation, a major supplier to Apple, has launched its Science and Technology Center in Hanoi for research and development purposes.

The center, located in the southeastern district of Gia Lam, introduces a series of solutions for traffic safety and the commercial market and showcases the corporation’s electronic technologies and solutions in Southeast Asia.

3M produces over 2,000 types of adhesives and tapes with varying thickness, strength, and water resistance capabilities, to meet the diverse needs of the electronics industry.

Apple lists 3M among its major suppliers with factories in the U.S., South Korea, China, Japan and Singapore.

3M has been selling its products in Vietnam since 1994, offering a variety of adhesives, window films, chemicals, and cleaning tools.

It also offers materials used in road markings. For the electronics sector it supplies tapes, chip carriers, wire connectors and ultra-fine sandpaper.

Vietnam is 3M’s fastest-growing market in the electronics sector in Southeast Asia, Amit Laroya, senior vice president for Asia in 3M’s transportation and electronics division.

The launching of the science center reflects 3M’s commitment to expanding operations in fast-growing markets with a demand for advanced solutions in the areas of consumer electronics, semiconductors, data centers, and industrial automation, he added.

The company also plans to invest in advanced testing equipment in Vietnam, he said.

Deputy Minister of Planning and Investment Nguyen Thi Bich Ngoc said that "is a testament to 3M’s confidence in Vietnam's business and investment environment."

It shows that Vietnam is gradually becoming a destination for high-tech, innovative, and global research and development projects.

U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Marc Knapper said that 3M has made significant achievements in electronics, semiconductors, telecommunications infrastructure, and automation.

These fields are crucial to both Vientam and U.S. economies and play important role in the continuous growth and development of Vietnam's rapidly advancing technology sector, he added.

The center affirms the goals of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, which include collaborating to promote innovation, foster creativity, and develop technologies.