5 new laws remove institutional barriers, foster innovation in science-technology

The bills approved by the National Assembly include the Law on Science, Technology, and Innovation, the Law on Digital Technology Industry, the Law on amendments to some Articles of the Law on Product and Goods Quality, the Law on amendments to some Articles of the Law on Standards and Technical Regulations, and amendments to the Law on Atomic Energy.

According to Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Le Xuan Dinh, the new laws were drafted one or two years ago and have undergone substantial revisions to reflect the principles outlined in Resolution 57 of the Politburo, which focuses on breakthroughs in the development of science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation.

Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Le Xuan Dinh. Photo by TTTT

"Under the strong leadership of Minister of Science and Technology, Nguyen Manh Hung, the changes to these laws not only reflect efforts to update outdated practices but also demonstrate a clear commitment to eliminating the institutional bottlenecks that have long impeded progress in these areas," he said at a press briefing on Monday.

At the press conference, ministry representatives elaborated on the core changes to and key components of the new laws. The Law on Science, Technology, and Innovation is designed to embody the spirit of Resolution 57 and showcases Vietnam’s aspirations to become a global leader through advances in science, technology and innovation. For the first time innovation is placed on an equal footing with science and technology, signaling a fundamental shift in the approach to development.

The Law on Digital Technology Industry covers various sectors in the digital economy, including semiconductors, artificial intelligence and digital assets. It also introduces special incentives for critical projects, and formally establishes the "Make in Vietnam" program to encourage domestic innovation, manufacturing, and technology transfer.

The Law on amendments to some Articles of the Law on Standards and Technical Regulations represent a significant transformation in how standards, measurement and quality are managed, and aim to modernize regulatory practices, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness.

The Law on Product and Goods Quality shifts from administrative management to a risk-based approach, moving from pre-inspection to post-inspection, with an emphasis on data and technology. It also strengthens accountability by transitioning from a voluntary encouragement mechanism to binding responsibilities, with penalties for non-compliance.

The amendments to the Law on Atomic Energy create a comprehensive framework aligned with the guidelines of the International Atomic Energy Agency. It makes nuclear energy a national strategic resource, contributing to energy security and supporting Vietnam’s efforts to reduce carbon emissions.

A press conference on five laws of science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation held on July 7, 2025. Photo by VnExpress/Chi Hieu

The Ministry of Science and Technology believes that these laws are an essential step towards achieving the objectives outlined in Resolution 57 and other key political resolutions. The laws aim to address long-standing institutional barriers, facilitating the development of science, technology and innovation while ensuring consistent and coordinated state management. The Ministry expects the laws to be implemented effectively and swiftly, bringing about tangible progress in the coming years.

Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Bui The Duy said the Ministry would issue decrees and circulars to align with the new laws.

"The Law on Science, Technology, and Innovation will come into effect on Oct. 1, and its corresponding decrees and circulars will take effect on the same day.

"Similarly, the decrees for the Law on Digital Technology Industry will be effective from Jan. 1, 2026."

The ministry is planning to draft more laws this year, including the Law on Digital Transformation, the Law on High Technology and the Law on Technology Transfer, and amend the Law on Intellectual Property. It hopes these would help build a solid legal framework that supports science, technology, innovation and digital transformation in Vietnam.

The new laws, along with previously enacted legislation covering telecommunications, frequency management and electronic transactions, are expected to establish a robust, comprehensive framework for these sectors, setting the stage for Vietnam's digital future.