On April 19, 2025, the Center for Application of Scientific and Technological Advances held a working session with PHAROS MARINE INC., a technology startup from South Korea specializing in research and provision of electric propulsion solutions for environmentally friendly watercraft. The meeting marked an important initial step in the cooperation between CASTA and PHAROS MARINE INC. to implement the Project on Developing a Pilot Model of Eco-friendly Waterway Transport in the Mekong Delta Region.

Representing PHAROS MARINE INC. were Mr. Lee Seulkie – CEO of PHAROS MARINE INC., Ms. An KyungJo – Head of Business Department, Mr. Lee Sunjae – Researcher, and Mr. Lee Jong Hyuk – CEO of SINASEAN VIETNAM SINASEAN KOREA.

On the side of the Center for Application of Scientific and Technological Advances, attendees included Mr. Nghiem Phong Vu – Director of the Center, Ms. Doan Thi Hong Quyen – Deputy Director, along with representatives from specialized departments such as Mr. Tran The Duy – Head of the Department of Science and International Cooperation, Mr. Nguyen Thanh Don – Engineer from the Laboratory of Mechanical Engineering, Automation, and New Materials, and Ms. Mai Truong Ngoc Ngan – Specialist from the Department of Science and International Cooperation.

During the session, the two parties discussed in-depth coordination for project implementation, including content on the transfer of application models, technical cooperation, training, and large-scale development of green technology products. The project is expected to be carried out in three main phases. The first phase is a pilot program in which PHAROS MARINE INC. will transfer 100 electric propulsion systems to replace gasoline and diesel engines for small watercraft in Can Tho City. The second phase focuses on the construction and installation of electric charging stations to support the existing propulsion systems. The third phase aims to scale up the application, including the use of this technology for larger vessels and expanding deployment to other provinces.

During the discussions, PHAROS MARINE INC. highly appreciated CASTA's position in the application, development, and transfer of science and technology, and expressed strong interest in potential cooperation on green technology transfer in Vietnam—particularly in the Mekong Delta, a region heavily affected by climate change and in need of sustainable transportation solutions. Initially, the company proposed that CASTA serve as the receiving, managing, and distributing unit for the 100 electric propulsion systems to appropriate beneficiaries. Additionally, CASTA was asked to provide consultation and select suitable locations for the installation of charging stations, and support the company in site surveys and assessments.

For its part, the Center for Application of Scientific and Technological Advances welcomed the initiative by PHAROS MARINE INC. to develop and apply green technology in Can Tho City. The Center emphasized its proactive, open, and cooperative spirit, as well as its readiness to support both domestic and international enterprises in applying and transferring advanced technology solutions, especially green and environmentally friendly technologies.

Notably, the Center expressed its willingness to support the promotion of PHAROS MARINE INC.'s green technology products through the Technology Exchange Platform, and to implement product transfer, testing, and real-world application activities. Based on that, the Center proposed two main forms of cooperation:

1. The Center acts as the receiving unit and develops an implementation plan for the technology transfer to beneficiaries.
2. The Center becomes the official partner of the company in carrying out promotion, marketing, and communication activities related to the electric propulsion system for watercraft; equipment management; consultation for the installation of charging stations, etc., based on a mutually beneficial collaboration.

The session concluded in a friendly atmosphere, opening up many positive prospects for promoting clean, green, and eco-friendly waterway transportation, in line with the sustainable development trends of the Mekong Delta region.

With existing strengths in human resources, equipment, infrastructure, and a strong commitment to innovation, the Center for Application of Scientific and Technological Advances is confident in becoming a key scientific and technical partner, accompanying PHAROS MARINE INC. in bringing advanced technological innovations into real life, improving community quality of life, and contributing to the realization of the goal of "greening transportation" in Vietnam.