Finance ministry continues studying property tax framework

The ministry disclosed the information in response to a proposal from National Assembly deputy Doan Thu Ha of Lang Son Province, who called for a review of the current land tax regime and consideration of a property tax framework to improve management of real estate and high-value assets.

According to the ministry, reviews of land- and property-related taxes are being conducted under plans approved by the National Assembly Standing Committee and the Prime Minister.

Real estate developments in eastern Ho Chi Minh City, April 2026. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran

Revenue from the non-agricultural land use tax averaged VND1.7 trillion (US$65 million) annually during 2012-2021, with average yearly growth of 11.2%. The ministry described the tax as a stable source of budget revenue but said tax reductions or exemptions could be considered when appropriate.

The ministry noted that the government has previously reported plans to study a real estate tax law that could replace the current non-agricultural and agricultural land use tax laws.

However, it said a property tax would be a complex policy with broad impacts on households, businesses, the real estate market and the wider economy. Authorities are therefore continuing to study international experience and implementation challenges before proposing a framework suitable for Vietnam's conditions and the country's 2021-2030 tax reform roadmap.

The ministry is also preparing amendments to the Law on Non-Agricultural Land Use Tax, which are expected to be submitted to the National Assembly in October.

Calls for a property tax have been raised for years as a way to curb speculation and cool the housing market. In 2023, the ministry proposed studying taxes on second homes and vacant residential properties.

A comprehensive property tax system has yet to be introduced due to challenges related to data availability, legal frameworks, public acceptance and market conditions.