Ho Chi Minh City Department of Science and Technology a specialized agency under the People's Committee of the City, performing the function of advising and assisting the City People's Committee in state management of science and technology, including: scientific research activities, technology development, innovation; development of science and technology potential; standards, measurement, quality; intellectual property; application of radiation and radioactive isotopes; radiation and nuclear safety; management and organization of implementation of public career services in the fields under the Department's functional scope in the City area according to the provisions of law.

Regarding the history of its establishment, on August 5, 1976, the scientific management agency of Ho Chi Minh City was established under the name of the Science and Technology Committee according to Decision No. 1810/QD-UB of Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee. On March 10, 1984, it was renamed the Science and Technology Committee according to Decision No. 45/QD-UB of Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee. On January 29, 1994, it was renamed Department of Science, Technology and Environment according to Decision No. 340/QD-UB-NC of Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee. On July 18, 2003, it was renamed Department of Science and Technology according to Decision No. 123/QD-UB of Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee.

The 6th and 7th Congresses of Ho Chi Minh City Party Committee assessed that: Ho Chi Minh City's science and technology activities have made positive contributions to the process of innovating management mechanisms, improving productivity, quality and efficiency of production and business; science and technology activities are a strength of Ho Chi Minh City with great potential in both staffs and qualifications. That strength must become the driving force for the development of the City and the entire region.