Vietnam is accelerating the completion of a comprehensive AI policy framework as part of its ambitious goal to rank among the top four ASEAN countries by 2030. The government plans to transition from relying on existing cybersecurity laws to establishing dedicated AI legislation that meets global governance standards.
Vietnam’s AI policy framework development follows a strategic national approach, building upon the “National Strategy on Research, Development and Application of Artificial Intelligence to 2030” approved by the Prime Minister in January 2021. This strategy aims to position Vietnam as a regional and global AI innovation hub. Dr. Pham Thi Thuy Nga from the Institute of State and Law emphasizes that “since AI is not a legal entity and does not possess will, morality, or legal responsibility, any negative consequences arising from its use must be explicitly attributed to the individuals or organizations involved,” highlighting the critical need for clear legal accountability frameworks.
Currently, Vietnam’s AI regulations remain rudimentary, largely dependent on indirect provisions within existing laws including the Law on Cybersecurity (2018), the Law on High Technology (2008), and the amended Law on Intellectual Property (2022). These general regulations fail to adequately address AI-specific issues such as legal liability of autonomous systems, training data access rights, algorithmic oversight, and transparency in AI decision-making. Dr. Truong Thi Thu Trang from the Institute of Social Science Information stresses that “to meet practical demands in the context of fast-paced and increasingly complex AI development, it is essential to promptly introduce a legally binding policy framework tailored to national conditions.”
International AI governance trends demonstrate rapid regulatory evolution across major economies. The United States passed the Algorithmic Accountability Act in 2022, Canada introduced the Artificial Intelligence and Data Act in 2023, and the European Union adopted comprehensive AI legislation in 2024. In Asia, China has developed specific regulations including “regulations on internet recommendation algorithms” and “AI-generated content regulations” alongside its strategic AI development plan. Japan enacted AI research and development promotion legislation in early 2025, legally mandating cooperation and information sharing among AI system developers, distributors, and users.
Dr. To Van Truong, former Director of the Southern Institute of Water Resources Planning, advocates for establishing a central coordinating body such as a national AI committee, complemented by transparent oversight mechanisms and community consultation channels. He proposes widespread deployment of controlled experimentation programs (AI sandboxes), tax incentives, and R&D support funds to foster genuine innovation. Experts emphasize that Vietnam’s AI policy must achieve a delicate balance between technological advancement and protection of core human values, ensuring the country remains competitive in the digital age while maintaining ethical foundations.
