Category: Vietnam – General

On 10 April 2025, the Ministry of Industry and Trade (“MOIT”) issued Decision 988/QĐ-BCT, which sets forth the electricity price framework applicable to solar power plants for the year 2025. This framework, issued by the MOIT, ensures transparency and consistency in pricing, serving as the foundation for agreements between power generation units and Electricity of Vietnam (“EVN”).

KEY ELECTRICITY PRICE:

The electricity price framework for 2025, applicable specifically to solar power plants, outlines the maximum allowable tariffs across regions and plant types. Below are the detailed provisions:

1. Ground-Mounted Solar Power Plants (Without Battery Storage Systems):
• Northern Region: Maximum price of 1,382.7 VND/kWh (excluding VAT).
• Central Region: Maximum price of 1,107.1 VND/kWh (excluding VAT).
• Southern Region: Maximum price of 1,012.0 VND/kWh (excluding VAT).
2. Floating Solar Power Plants (Without Battery Storage Systems):
• Northern Region: Maximum price of 1,685.8 VND/kWh (excluding VAT).
• Central Region: Maximum price of 1,336.1 VND/kWh (excluding VAT).
• Southern Region: Maximum price of 1,228.2 VND/kWh (excluding VAT).
3. Ground-Mounted Solar Power Plants (With Battery Storage Systems):
• Northern Region: Maximum price of 1,571.98 VND/kWh (excluding VAT).
• Central Region: Maximum price of 1,257.05 VND/kWh (excluding VAT).
• Southern Region: Maximum price of 1,149.86 VND/kWh (excluding VAT).
4. Floating Solar Power Plants (With Battery Storage Systems):
• Northern Region: Maximum price of 1,876.57 VND/kWh (excluding VAT).
• Central Region: Maximum price of 1,487.18 VND/kWh (excluding VAT).
• Southern Region: Maximum price of 1,367.13 VND/kWh (excluding VAT).
TECHNICAL PARAMETERS FOR BATTERY STORAGE SYSTEMS:

To calculate maximum prices for solar power plants with battery storage systems, the following requirements apply:
• Capacity: At least 10% of the installed capacity of the solar power plant.
• Storage/Discharge Duration: 2 hours.
• Charging Power Output Ratio: 5% of the plant’s total output.
This legal update signals a significant step forward in aligning Vietnam’s renewable energy sector with standardized pricing mechanisms and broader energy policy goals. Power generation units and stakeholders in the energy industry should review these provisions and ensure compliance in their operations.

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Please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Oliver Massmann under omassmann@duanemorris.com if you have any questions on the above. Dr. Oliver Massmann is the General Director of Duane Morris Vietnam LLC.

Vietnamesen haben bisher geglaubt, einen Weg durch den Zoll-Dschungel zu finden. So war zuletzt der Stahlexport in die USA gestiegen. Doch nun plant der US-Präsident 46 Prozent an Einfuhrabgaben, mehr als für fast jedes andere Land.
Vietnam treffen die neuen reziproken Zölle von US-Präsident Donald Trump in Höhe von 46 Prozent hart. Ein Drittel des vietnamesischen Bruttoinlandseinkommens hängt am US-Export. Das Land hat mittlerweile das drittgrößte Außenhandelsdefizit gegenüber den USA, exportiert also deutlich mehr als es importiert – was den amerikanischen Präsidenten Donald Trump regelmäßig erzürnt hat. Die Politik hat sich dementsprechend schon vor dem Liberation Day darüber besorgt gezeigt, dass sich viele US-Investoren auf einmal aus dem Markt zurückziehen könnten.
„Daher haben sie versucht, diplomatisch vorzusorgen und wohlwollende Botschaften zu senden“, erklärt Oliver Massmann. Der Partner der US-Kanzlei Duane Morris lebt und arbeitet seit mehr als 25 Jahren in Vietnam. „Das Land verfolgt seit Jahrzehnten eine ‘Bamboo-Diplomacy’, wie die Leute sie hier nennen. Sich mit möglichst vielen anderen Staaten anfreunden, flexibel und widerstandsfähig sein und vor allem: rasant wachsen.“
Um die USA zu beschwichtigen, ist ihnen der südostasiatische Staat in mehreren Bereichen entgegengekommen. Mitte Februar hatte der Minister für Industrie und Handel, Nguyen Hong Dien, angekündigt, dass Vietnam bereit sei, mehr Agrargüter aus den USA zu importieren. Um das Handelsdefizit zu schmälern, sollen auch LNG-Exporte nach Vietnam diskutiert worden sein. Und um die Führungsspitze zu besänftigen, hat Vietnams Premierminister Pham Minh Chinh außerdem den Weg für einen landesweiten Einsatz des Satelliten-Internets Starlink von Trump Intimus Elon Musk geebnet. Starlink will der Multimilliardär Mukesh Ambani zeitgleich auch nach Indien holen.
Einer der größten Stahllieferanten der USA
Eine Sonderbehandlung habe Vietnam auch vor den neuen Zöllen dadurch allerdings nicht bekommen: „Die USA hatten beispielsweise 2018 viele Länder von der damaligen Erhöhung der Stahl- und Aluminiumzölle ausgenommen – nicht aber Vietnam“, sagt Massmann. Importeure zahlen seitdem auf vietnamesischen Stahl 25 Prozent Zoll. Dem Handel hat das bisher keinen Abbruch getan, der Stahlexport ist im Vergleich zu 2018 trotz der Handelshemmnisse sogar deutlich gestiegen. Vietnam ist gemessen am Warenwert heute der sechstgrößte Stahllieferant der USA; bezogen auf die Menge liegt Vietnam inzwischen sogar vor Deutschland auf Platz fünf.
Trotz mangelnder Sonderbehandlung gehörte das Land außerdem zu den Profiteuren der US-Zollpolitik in Trumps erster Amtszeit. Viele Unternehmen waren aus China nach Vietnam geflüchtet oder hatten Vietnam als Transitstaat für Exporte genutzt, um den US-Strafzöllen gegen China zu entgehen. Die reziproken Zölle heben diesen Vorteil nun auf – und strafen dadurch ein weiteres Mal China ab. Ob sich die Lieferketten aus Vietnam zukünftig in die Nachbarländer verlagern könnte, bleibt abzuwarten. Auch Malaysia wird mit Abgaben von 24 Prozent belegt, Indonesien mit 32 Prozent und Kambodscha sogar mit 49 Prozent. In Washington ist Vietnam also mit seiner Bambus-Diplomatie vorerst gescheitert – und es ist fraglich, ob die florierenden Handelsbeziehungen zwischen den beiden Staaten die hohen reziproken Zölle unbeschadet überleben werden.
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Bei Fragen und für weitere Einzelheiten steht Ihnen Dr. Oliver Massmann unter omassmann@duanemorris.com gerne zur Verfügung. Dr. Oliver Massmann ist der Generaldirektor von Duane Morris Vietnam LLC.

1. Recently, General Secretary To Lam emphasized that Vietnam is entering the dawn of the digital age and data plays an important role in the digital economy. What is your opinion on the development direction of Vietnam’s data economy as well as the article by General Secretary To Lam?
I truly believe that the development direction set out by General Secretary To Lam is both timely and visionary. His article underscores the critical role of data as a new economic resource, which, in my opinion, is comparable to oil in the industrial era.
Vietnam’s recognition of data as a strategic asset reflects a forward-looking approach, aligning with global digital transformation trends. The direction outlined in his article sets the foundation for a modern data economy that values both innovation and sovereignty.
I also want to note that Vietnam is making remarkable progress as it steps into the digital age. Recently, important documents were issued by competent authorities on cybersecurity and data, namely the Law on Data, the Decree on personal data protection, the Decision approving the National Data Strategy until 2030, and the Resolution on breakthroughs in science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation.
2. What solutions does Vietnam need to implement for the data economy to truly develop (perfecting the legal system, facilitating the development of database infrastructure, public-private partnership, capital investment, human resource training, etc.)?
I am a lawyer, so I will first focus on the legal system of Vietnam. I think Vietnam must refine its laws to clarify some key elements like data ownership, cross-border data transfer, data storage, consent mechanisms, and data sharing across sectors. To attract more investment, legal certainty is crucial for both domestic and foreign investors. It is also worth noting that Vietnam’s international integration is unmatched and should be utilized to develop the legal framework on data.
Second, I believe that investment in localized cloud infrastructure and data centers should be prioritized by the government to further develop national database systems. Incentives and tax benefits could promote investment in sectors as mentioned. Also, the data economy demands a workforce with strong skills in data science, cybersecurity, AI, and digital ethics. Education and training programs should be structured and provided to meet this demand, in partnership with universities and international tech companies.
3. In your opinion, how can the data economy contribute to Vietnam’s economic growth target in the near future and beyond?
The data economy can be a transformative engine for Vietnam’s growth in several ways. When it comes to technologies, data-driven technologies such as AI, IoT, and automation can boost productivity across manufacturing, agriculture, logistics, and services. Further, the focus on the development of data can support the rise of digital platforms, fintech, e-commerce, and smart city solutions, generating high-income jobs and exportable services.
Also, with the ongoing reshuffling of the government’s human resources, I think that data initiatives can enhance public service, optimize policy planning, and accelerate the process of reshuffling the government.
Last but not least, a transparent data environment will attract tech giants to invest in Vietnam. If effectively developed, the data economy could contribute significantly to Vietnam’s GDP growth and its ambition to become an upper-middle-income country by 2030 and a high-income country by 2045. This growth is not only sustainable but also contributes to building a knowledge-based economy. With a dynamic spirit and the right strategies, Vietnam has the potential to become a successful model of digital economic development on the global stage, shaping a bright future.
4. What is your opinion on Vietnam’s economic activities in the first 3 months of the year?
Vietnam’s economy in Q1 has shown resilience despite global uncertainties like trade wars, supply chain disruption, and so on. According to public sources, the country’s GDP is expected to grow by nearly 8% in the first quarter, creating a solid foundation for economic growth throughout the year.
Key indicators suggest positive momentum in exports, foreign investment, and industrial production. Notably, the recovery in tourism and consumer demand signals strong domestic market potential. Looking at the first three months, I believe that 2025 will be another successful year for Vietnam.
5. What is your opinion on Vietnam’s simplification of visa procedures/elimination of visas to create favorable conditions and attract more foreign businesses/investors to Vietnam?
Visa simplification is a pragmatic – thực dụng – and strategic move as it can significantly boost investor confidence and create a more business-friendly environment.
By simplifying entry procedures and expanding visa exemptions, Vietnam enhances its competitiveness as a destination for investment, tourism, and talent. It sends a clear message that Vietnam is ready to open up and compete on the international stage. However, it is essential to balance this openness with strong security measures and regulatory oversight to ensure that the benefits of increased international engagement do not come at the cost of national security or effective border control. If managed well, these reforms could drive substantial long-term economic growth.
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Please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Oliver Massmann under omassmann@duanemorris.com if you have any questions on the above. Dr. Oliver Massmann is the General Director of Duane Morris Vietnam LLC.

1. What have your clients been asking you about the restructuring, and what have you been advising them?

Answer: Many clients doing business in different sectors have approached us about this restructuring. Personally, I believe that this restructuring heavily impacts all sectors in Vietnam on different levels. Our advice provided to impacted clients varies because each client has their own problems. For example, with clients having problems with the court’s procedures due to the restructuring, we advised them that they should follow up closely with the restructuring and seek support from other competent authorities to accelerate the process if the process is delayed.

2. What are the biggest legal challenges businesses might face during this transition?

Answer: On 1 March 2025, the restructuring impacting Ministries and agencies under the Government was finalized and, as a result, there are now 14 Ministries instead of 18 Ministries like before with the merger of some then-important Ministries, including the Ministry of Planning and Investment and Ministry of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs. I think the implementation of contracts with provisions on certain competent authorities impacted by this restructuring will be the biggest challenge for businesses, especially for provisions on merging authorities (i.e., Ministry/Department of Planning and Investment, district-level courts, Ministry/Department of Labor, Invalids and Social Affairs, Ministry/Department of Information and Communications) since these authorities no longer exist. Administrative procedures handled by impacted competent authorities could also pose a threat to the day-to-day activities of businesses in Vietnam since they can be delayed or changed in terms of location or timeline due to the restructuring. Also, with regulations of the law whereby businesses’ obligations are tied directly with certain merging authorities, entities will have to face difficulties in fulfilling their obligations during this period.

3. In your experience, which industries will be most impacted by the shifting regulatory responsibilities? Why?

Answer: I think industries will face different difficulties in this transitional period, and it is hard to assess the most impacted industry. Taking the merger of the Ministry of Finance and the Ministry of Planning and Investment for example, all enterprises established and operating under the Enterprise Registration Certificate issued by the local Department of Planning and Investment are now heavily impacted because their managing authority no longer exists without any further guiding documents. For this reason, all of their contracts and licenses will face difficulties with their validity and related procedures.

4. What are the potential consequences of eliminating district-level courts on commercial dispute resolution? Will businesses need to prepare for longer case durations at higher courts?

Answer: Longer case durations at higher courts is indeed one of the major potential consequences. Also, according to the new Law on Organization of People’s Court, cases already being handled by district-level courts can also potentially be transferred to other courts (i.e., higher courts or specialized courts). However, I believe that guiding documents will soon be issued by the Supreme Court to address the issue related to the elimination of district-level courts. Note that according to Conclusion 127-KL/TW dated 28 February of the Central Committee, the Central Committee will receive opinions from relevant stakeholders until 7 April 2025 on this matter. For the time being, all we can do is follow the new developments of this matter closely.
5. Current business licenses remain valid until they expire or certain changes occur. However, businesses may need to update registrations and obtain new permits under the restructured system. What should companies do now to stay compliant, and what considerations should they discuss with their counsel to avoid risks?

Answer: To my understanding, no compliance-related penalty should be given to businesses for violations resulting from this restructuring. I would say that businesses need to work with their counsels to proactively approach both their old and their new managing authorities to work out the best solutions going forward and to follow up closely with any changes of laws directly relating to their positions.

6. What advice do you have for companies currently operating in Vietnam and those considering establishing in the country?

Answer: For companies in Vietnam, my piece of advice is to consult your counsel closely and keep doing what you are doing. And, if you intend to invest in Vietnam, please do it as soon as possible. With this restructuring going on, I still believe that Vietnam is a dreamland for opportunity with its unmatched international integration and support from the authorities. While this restructuring can pose some compliance-related threats to businesses in Vietnam, businesses will enjoy a never-before friendly environment for investment after the restructuring since the ultimate achievement of this restructuring is to create effective and efficient operations of competent authorities.
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Please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Oliver Massmann under omassmann@duanemorris.com if you have any questions on the above. Dr. Oliver Massmann is the General Director of Duane Morris Vietnam LLC.

To provide detailed provisions guiding the new Law No. 61/2024/QH15 on Electricity passed by the National Assembly on 30 November 2024 (“Electricity Law”), on 3 March 2025, the Government issued a series of Decrees, namely

(i) Decree No. 56/2025/ND-CP providing detailed guidance on the implementation of a number of articles of the Electricity Law regarding power development planning, power grid expansion, investment in power projects, and bidding for electricity projects (“Decree 56”),
(ii) Decree No. 57/2025/ND-CP regulating direct power purchase mechanism between renewable energy generators and large electricity users (“Decree 57”),
(iii) Decree No. 58/2025/ND-CP providing detailed guidance on a number of articles of the Electricity Law regarding the development of renewable energy and new energy (“Decree 58”),
(iv) Decree No. 61/2025/ND-CP providing detailed guidance on a number of articles of the Electricity Law regarding the Electricity Operation License (“Decree 61”).

We would like to present the key highlights of the above-mentioned Decrees as below:

1- Decree 56

1. Requirements for master plan inclusion:
The following power projects are exempt from the requirements for master plan inclusion:
• Self-production and self-consumption renewable and new energy sources either grid-connected at a low voltage level of ≤ 1kV or not connected at all
• Grid-connected power sources equipped with zero-export systems
• Power sources using excess heat generated from the manufacturing lines for self-consumption, whether connected or not connected to the national grid, as long as there is no sale of power output to the power system
• Power sources not connected to or selling power output to the national power system, except for the cases of power imports and exports (e.g., power sources only for private sale and purchase)
• Power grids of ≤ 1kV voltage level.

2. Bidding process for investor selection
• Applicable projects: Gas-to-power projects, coal-fired power projects, and renewable energy projects (including solar power, wind power, hydropower, and biomass power), which are included in the national or provincial power master plans and have ≥ 02 interested investors.
• Electricity consumer: Vietnam Electricity (EVN) (or its authorized units) and its five Power Corporations.
• Bidding dossier: Information included in the bidding documents, among others, includes the following:
• Electricity consumer.
• Pre-feasibility study report of the project.
• Draft Power Purchase Agreement (PPA).
• Pass-through mechanism and long-term minimum contract power output mechanism as investment guarantee mechanisms.
• Evaluation criteria for power industry development effectiveness:
• For the effectiveness assessment, the bidder evaluation score with regard to the level of power industry development will contribute between 80% and 90% of the score allocation percentage for determining the winner.
• Power tariff for projects with a tariff framework issued by the MOIT: The defined ceiling tariff for this case is required to be lower or equal to the ceiling tariff specified in the bidding dossier. The bidders are required to propose a power tariff lower or equal to the ceiling tariff for the power purchaser and the winning bidder to negotiate the PPA tariff.
• Contributions to the state budget for projects lacking a tariff framework from the MOIT: The minimum annual contribution to the State budget (regardless of the investor’s legal obligations to the State budget); the bidder must propose an amount that is higher or equal to the amount specified in the bidding dossier.
• PPA discussion and implementation:
• Approval of the feasibility study (FS) report: Within 15 months (for hydropower, gas-to-power, coal-fired, and wind power projects) or six months (for biomass power and solar power projects) from the execution date of the project contract.
• PPA negotiation and execution: According to the bidding outcomes and the sanctioned FS report, within three months from the day the successful bidder presents a valid application to the power buyer.
• Transitional provisions: Power projects already included in the master plan with a capacity scale included in the power supply network development plan at the provincial level under Decree 56 will continue to be implemented in accordance with the decisions approved by the competent authorities. These projects shall be updated in the provincial plan or the plan to implement the provincial plan when establishing or adjusting the provincial plan after this Decree takes effect.
2. Decree 57
Decree 57 replaces Decree No. 80/2024/ND-CP issued by the Government on 3 July 2024 on mechanisms for direct power trading between renewable energy generators and large electricity consumers (“Decree 80”) with the following notable provisions:
1. Models of direct power purchase: Similar to Decree 80, Decree 57 regulates (i) the private wire model where renewable energy generators sell electricity to large electricity consumers through a private power wire, and (ii) the grid-connected model where the sale and purchase of electricity are implemented via the grid.
2. Key changes: While Decree 57 replaces Decree 80 and inherits the mechanisms as set out in Decree 80, Decree 57 introduces the following amendments to enhance the enforceability of the DPPA mechanism:
• Scope of eligible renewable power sources: Biomass energy generators are added to Decree 57 as regulated renewable energy generators
• Large electricity consumers: While only industrial consumers are defined under Decree 80, businesses providing electric vehicle charging services are defined in Decree 57 as one type of large electricity consumers.
• Participation conditions:
• For large electricity consumers who have been using electricity for 12 months or more: The average overall electricity usage over the past 12 months (calculated based on the total electricity acquired from a Power Corporation or its authorized entities) cannot be less than the minimum electricity consumption threshold for large electricity users as outlined in the regulations governing the operation of the competitive electricity market issued by the Ministry of Industry and Trade (“MOIT”).
• For large electricity consumers who have been using electricity for less than 12 months: The average overall electricity usage is determined by the projected electricity demand acquired from a Power Corporation (or its authorized entities) and must meet or exceed the minimum consumption threshold for large electricity consumers as outlined in the regulations governing the competitive wholesale electricity market established by the MOIT.
• Limit on surplus power from rooftop solar: Surplus electricity from renewable generators with rooftop solar systems selling directly to major electricity users must not surpass 20% of the total electricity produced. This surplus electricity is also determined at the average market electricity price from the prior year, as reported by the electricity system and market operator. It must not go beyond the highest cost of the ground-mounted solar energy pricing structure
• Pricing framework: As for the private wire model, the selling price of electricity must not exceed the maximum price within the price framework. Similarly, the surplus electricity output from renewable energy generation units sold to Vietnam Electricity Group, Power Corporations, or Electricity Companies shall have its output and selling price agreed upon by both parties but must not exceed the maximum price level within the price framework for the corresponding type of power source.
3. Decree 58
Decree 58 replaces Decree No. 135/2024/ND-CP issued by the Government on 22 October 2024 on policies encouraging the development of self-production and self-consumption rooftop solar power (“Decree 135”) and introduces the following provisions:
1. Incentives provided for new energy projects:
• Exemption from sea area usage fees during the basic construction period but not exceeding 03 years from the date of commencement of construction. 50% reduction in sea area usage fees for a period of 09 years after the exemption period of the basic construction period;
• Exemption from land use fees and land rent during the basic construction period but not exceeding 03 years from the date of commencement of construction. After the exemption period of the basic construction period, the exemption and reduction of land use fees and land rent shall be implemented in accordance with the provisions of law on investment and land;
• The minimum long-term contracted electricity output is 70% within the loan principal repayment period but not exceeding 12 years unless the investor and the electricity buyer have another agreement. This mechanism shall not be applied in cases where the project fails to generate the minimum committed output due to reasons from the project side or due to load demand or technical conditions of the power system that cannot consume all the output;
2. New energy projects qualified for incentives:
• New energy projects produced from 100% green hydrogen, 100% green ammonia, or 100% mixture of green hydrogen and green ammonia;
• Projects supplying electricity to the national power system;
• The first project for each type of new energy.
3. Mechanisms and policies for self-production and self-consumption rooftop solar (“RTS”) power projects: Similar to Decree 135, Decree 58 provides two models for RTS power projects where developers can opt to either connect or not to connect their RTS power system to the grid. In the case of connection to the grid, no more than 20% of the RTS power system’s installed capacity may be sold to Vietnam Electricity (EVN) in exchange for the surplus power produced.
4. Development of offshore wind power projects:
• Applicable projects: Offshore wind power projects with in-principle investment policy approval issued by competent authorities before 1 January 2031.
• Conditions applied to foreign investors:
• Experience: Foreign investors must have at least invested and developed one offshore wind power project that is operating and generating power in Vietnam or elsewhere;
• Financial capability: Foreign investors must have their capital in the project accounting for at least 15% of the project’s total estimated investment capital, and their equity ratio on the capital contribution to the project being at least 20%;
• Participation of domestic enterprises: Domestic enterprises must hold at least 5% of the charter capital or total voting shares in the economic organization implementing the offshore wind power project. The domestic enterprises can be State-owned enterprises or enterprises in which a State-owned enterprise with 100% of the charter capital holds more than 50% of the charter capital or total voting shares. Additionally, for offshore wind power projects that export electricity without using the national power system, the domestic enterprises must hold more than 50% of the charter capital;
• Authorities’ consensus: Foreign investors must obtain written consensus from the Ministry of National Defense, the Ministry of Public Security, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; and
• Commitment to using domestic resources: They must commit to using domestic human resources, goods, and services from domestic suppliers, ensuring fair competition in terms of price, quality, progress, and availability.
4. Decree 61
Decree 61 replaces Decree No. 137/2013/ND-CP issued by the Government on 21 October 2013 providing guidance for the Electricity Law 2004, as amended and supplemented by Decree No. 08/2018/ND-CP dated 15 January 2018 and Decree No. 17/2020/ND-CP dated 5 February 2020 (“Decree 137”). Generally, Decree 61 inherits the relevant provisions of Decree 137 on the Electricity Operation License and the procedures with respect to the Electricity Operation License. Decree 61 also provides provisions to promote renewable energy sources and to align with the Electricity Law. Accordingly, according to Decree 61, the following projects are exempt from the requirements of an Electricity Operation License:
• Power projects for self-use, not selling electricity to other organizations or individuals:
a) No capacity scale limit for projects not connected to the national power system;
b) Installed capacity under 30 MW for projects connected to the national power system.
• Projects with installed capacity under 01 MW for power projects selling electricity to other organizations or individuals are exempted from electricity operation licenses in the power generation sector.
• Electricity businesses in rural, mountainous, border, and island areas that buy electricity with a capacity of less than 100 kVA from the distribution grid to sell electricity directly to electricity customers in rural, mountainous, border, and island areas are exempted from electricity retail licenses.

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Please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Oliver Massmann under omassmann@duanemorris.com if you have any questions on the above. Dr. Oliver Massmann is the General Director of Duane Morris Vietnam LLC.

On 20 February 2025, the National Assembly passed Resolution No. 170/2024/QH15 providing special mechanisms and policies to remove obstacles for projects and land under the conclusions of inspections, examinations, and verdicts in Ho Chi Minh City, Da Nang City, and Khanh Hoa Province (“Resolution 170”). Resolution 170 introduces special mechanisms to handle violations relating to land use terms, land prices, land use fees, and land rent calculations where investors are allowed to continue the use of land, land prices are calculated based on specific milestones and timeline, and land use terms are determined specifically under the following inspection conclusions and reports:
· Inspection Conclusion No. 2852/KL-TTCP dated 2 November 2012 of the Government Inspectorate;
· Inspection Conclusion No. 269/KL-TTCP dated 16 September 2019 of the Government Inspectorate;
· Inspection Conclusion No. 250/KL-TTCP dated 11 September 2020 of the Government Inspectorate;
· Inspection Conclusion No. 757/KL-TTCP dated 13 May 2021 of the Government Inspectorate;
· Report No. 332/BC-TTCP dated 9 December 2020 of the Government Inspectorate.
According to Resolution 170, only obstacles caused by State authorities or State authorities and investors will be considered to be handled under this resolution.

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Please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Oliver Massmann under omassmann@duanemorris.com if you have any questions on the above. Dr. Oliver Massmann is the General Director of Duane Morris Vietnam LLC.

Vietnam has so far been spared tariffs by the Trump administration despite a large foreign trade deficit; so goes the assumption…
1. This is not entirely true as to some aspects. Trump imposes worldwide 25 percent steel and aluminum tariffs. While several countries received exemptions from the 2018 steel and aluminum tariffs, Vietnam was never granted one. As a result, Vietnamese steel and aluminum exports were already subject to a 25 percent and 10 percent tariff, respectively. From March 12, the aluminum tariff will increase to 25 percent, while the steel tariff will remain unchanged.
· Vietnam was the US’s fifth largest source of steel in 2024, rising from ninth place in 2023. In 2024, US imports of steel mill products for domestic consumption from Vietnam skyrocketed by 143.4 percent on the previous year to reach 1.2 million metric tons, valued at US$1.13 billion, per data from the ITA. Almost 75 percent was composed of flat carbon and alloy steel. Vietnam also exports a smaller amount of aluminum to the US. In 2024, Vietnam’s total exports of aluminum products for domestic consumption to the US dropped by 1.7 percent from 2023 to 35,593 metric tons, valued at US$142.9 million.
It is important to note that Vietnam’s steel and aluminum exports to the US were already subject to tariffs of 25 percent and 10 percent, respectively. In 2018, during Trump’s first term, the US imposed Section 232 tariffs on steel and aluminum imports from all countries, citing national security concerns. While some countries later received exemptions, tariffs on many Vietnamese steel products have remained in place ever since.
• As a result, the impact on Vietnam’s steel exports to the US is likely to be limited, especially given that exports have continued to grow rapidly despite the tariff. The tariff hike could even benefit Vietnamese exporters by leveling the playing field with other countries, which will now face the same 25 percent tariff. Notably, major US steel suppliers such as Canada and Mexico, which were previously granted exemptions, will now be subject to the tariff.
• By contrast, Vietnamese aluminum exports to the US are more vulnerable. The tariff rate will increase by 15 percentage points, posing a greater challenge—especially since Vietnam exports smaller quantities of aluminum, and shipments had already declined in 2024 compared to the previous year, even before the tariff increase.
• However, the global steel and aluminum markets are likely to experience significant shifts due to these tariffs. If the US achieves Trump’s stated goal of expanding its domestic steel and aluminum industries, major US suppliers will seek new markets for their products, intensifying competition for Vietnamese exports.
2. Generally, as the Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade of Vietnam recently confirmed, Trump’s recent tariffs on imports from major trading partners will alter the flow of global trade, and Vietnam will not be exempt from the impact but Vietnam expects no major damage as the government is closely monitoring the global development for the following reasons:
(i) Vietnam has conveyed messages to the U.S. about Vietnam’s desire to maintain and build a harmonious, sustainable, and mutually beneficial economic and trade relationship;
(ii) Vietnam has no policies that seek to harm U.S. workers and its national security;
(iii) Vietnamese goods exported to the U.S. mainly compete with third countries, not directly with U.S. businesses in their domestic market. Vietnam exports provide U.S. consumers with access to affordable goods.
(iv) Vietnam pursues a free trade policy, with minimal tariff disparities for U.S. goods. In the future, this gap may narrow further as Vietnam aims to reduce Most Favored Nation tariffs on various products.
(v) The two countries have established a policy dialogue mechanism under the Vietnam–U.S. Trade and Investment Framework Agreement. Additionally, the government has proactively tasked ministries and sectors to review obstacles and develop solutions to address U.S. concerns.
(vi) Vietnam will facilitate U.S. investors’ participation in the development of key industries in Vietnam. Priority areas include major energy projects such as new energy, hydrogen, and nuclear power. This also lays the groundwork for increased imports of liquefied gas, fuels, machinery, equipment, and technology from the U.S.
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Please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Oliver Massmann under omassmann@duanemorris.com if you have any questions on the above. Dr. Oliver Massmann is the General Director of Duane Morris Vietnam LLC.

Q1 – Cases of work permit exemption
There are a number of cases of work permit exemption under Labor Code 2019 and Government’s Decree 152/2020/NĐ-CP dated 30 December 2020 (Decree 152), as amended by Decree No. 70/2023/NĐ-CP dated 18 September 2023.
We would like to generally summarize as below. We are pleased to comment and advise on a case by case basis subject to the comprehensive review of your specific circumstance.
No. Circumstances of work permit exemption
Legal basis
1 Owner or capital contributor of a limited liability company with a capital contribution value of at least 3 billion dong Article 154.1 Labor Code 2019 and Article 7.1 Decree 152
2 Chairperson or a member of the Board of Directors of a joint-stock company a capital contribution value of at least 3 billion dong
Article 154.2 Labor Code 2019 and Article 7.2 Decree 152
3 Manager of a representative office, project or the person in charge of the operation of an international organizations or a foreign non-governmental organization in Vietnam
Article 154.3 Labor Code 2019
4 Entering Vietnam for a period of less than 03 months to do marketing of a service.
Article 154.4 Labor Code 2019
5 Entering Vietnam for a period of less than 03 months to a resolve complicated technical or technological issue which (i) affects or threatens to affect business operation and (ii) cannot be resolved by Vietnamese experts or any other foreign experts currently in Vietnam.
Article 154.5 Labor Code 2019
6 A foreign lawyer who has been granted a lawyer’s practicing certificate in Vietnam in accordance with the Law on Lawyers.
Article 154.6 Labor Code 2019
7 In one of the cases specified in an international treaty to which the Socialist Republic of Vietnam is a signatory.
Article 154.7 Labor Code 2019
8 Getting married with a Vietnamese citizen and wishes to reside in Vietnam.
Article 154.8 Labor Code 2019
9 An intra-company transferee within 11 sectors in the schedule of commitments in services between Vietnam and WTO, including: business services, communication services, construction services, distribution services, educational services, environmental services, financial services, health services, tourism services, recreational and cultural services, and transport services.
Article 7.3 Decree 152
10 Entering Vietnam to provide professional and engineering consulting services or perform other tasks intended for research, formulation, appraisal, supervision, evaluation, management and execution of programs and projects using official development assistance (ODA) in accordance with regulations or agreement in international treaties on ODA signed between the competent authorities of Vietnam and foreign countries.
Article 7.4 Decree 152
11 Granted with a communication and journalism practicing certificate in Vietnam by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs as per the law.
Article 7.5 Decree 152
12 Sent by a foreign competent authority or organization to Vietnam to teach or to work as a manager or executive director at an international school under management of a foreign diplomatic mission or an intergovernmental organization; or of a facility established under an agreement to which Vietnam is a signatory.
Article 7.6 Decree 152
13 A volunteer as specified as an unpaid expat who voluntarily works in Vietnam to implement an international treaty to which the Socialist Republic of Vietnam is a signatory with certification of a foreign diplomatic mission or international organization in Vietnam.
Article 3.2 and Article 7.7 Decree 152
14 Entering Vietnam to hold the position of a manager, executive, expert or technical worker for a period of work of less than 30 days and up to 3 times a year.
Article 7.8 Decree 152
15 Entering Vietnam to implement an international agreement to which a central or provincial authority is a signatory as per the law.
Article 7.9 Decree 152
16 Student studying at a foreign school or training institution which has a probation agreement with an agency, organization or enterprise in Vietnam; or a probationer or apprentice on a Vietnam sea-going ship.
Article 7.10 Decree 152
17 A relative of a member of foreign representative body in Vietnam
Article 7.11 Decree 152
18 Obtaining an official passport to work for a regulatory agency, political organization, or socio-political organization.
Article 7.12 Decree 152
19 Being in charge of establishing a Vietnam-based commercial presence.
Article 7.13 Decree 152
20 Certified by the Ministry of Education and Training as a expat entering Vietnam to do the following work:
a) Teaching, researching;
b) Working as a manager, executive director, principal, vice principal of an educational institution proposed to be established in Vietnam by a foreign diplomatic mission or an intergovernmental organization. Article 7.14 Decree 152

Q2 – How to get work permit exemption certificate in Vietnam
We would like to summarize the step by step procedure to obtain a work permit exemption certificate as below.
Step 1 Obtaining Approval of demand on employing foreign employees
– Must be done at least 15 days before the expat’s commencement date.
– The employer shall prepare the registration form for its demand on using expats and submit the same with provincial PC/ DOLISA.
Step 2 Preparing and submitting documents for applying for work permit exemption certificate Application preparation:
– Request form for confirming the foreign employee is eligible for work permit exemption (standard form);
– Original or certified copy of Vietnam health check; or certified translation of the legalized health check if issued abroad;
– Original or certified copy of Pre-Approval of Demand on using foreign employees (obtained in step 1), if required;
– Certified copy of valid passport;
– Proof of eligibility for work permit exemption (01 original or 01 certified copy. Documents issued in foreign countries should be legalized and translated into Vietnamese and in accordance with regulations of Vietnam).
Application submission:
– Must be submitted to MOLISA or DOLISA at least 10 days before the expat’s commencement date.
Step 3 Receiving Result – After 5 working days of receiving full valid documents, MOLISA/ DOLISA shall issue a work permit exemption certificate or reject to issue the work permit exemption certificate with express reasons of rejection.
– Validity of a work permit exemption certificate is up to 2 years.
Note: There exist a couple of circumstance where a work permit exemption certificate is not required, e.g. an expat getting married with a Vietnamese citizen and wishes to reside in Vietnam. Should it be the case, the employer’s sole obligation is to submit a notice to DOLISA on the candidate description at least 3 days before the expat’s commencement date.

Q3 – How to obtain work permit in Vietnam
1. Cases where work permit is required
Except for exempted cases, foreign nationals working in Vietnam in one of the following forms must apply for a Work Permit (Article 2.1 Decree 152):
• Performing a labor contract.
• Internal transfer within an enterprise.
• Performing various contracts or agreements related to economics, commerce, finance, banking, insurance, science and technology, culture, sports, education, vocational education, and health.
• Service providers under contract.
• Offering services.
• Working for foreign non-governmental organizations or international organizations permitted to operate in Vietnam.
• Volunteers.
• Individuals responsible for establishing commercial presence.
• Managers, executive directors, specialists, and technical workers.
• Participating in the implementation of packages and projects in Vietnam.
• Family members of foreign representatives in Vietnam allowed to work in Vietnam according to international agreements to which Vietnam is a member.
 Some notes related to work permits:
1. The maximum duration of a work permit is 2 years, and in case of extension, it can only be extended once for a maximum duration of 2 years. (Article 155 of the Labor Code)
2. The duration of the labor contract for expats in Vietnam shall not exceed the duration of the work permit. (Clause 2, Article 151 of the Labor Code)
3. Expats must present their work permit upon request by a competent state authority. (Clause 1, Article 153 of the Labor Code)
4. One of the important conditions for reissuance and extension of the work permit is that it must still be valid. (Articles 12 and 16 of Decree 152). If an employer wants to extend a work permit for a expat, they must carry out the extension procedures at least 5 days and no more than 45 days before the expiration of the work permit. (Clause 1, Article 16 of Decree 152).
2. Procedures for the applicable of a work permit
 Implementation Steps:
Step Party in charge Work to do Authority Statutory Timeline
1 The employer Prepare and submit an application using standard form Ministry of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs or the local Department of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs At least 15 working days before the expat is expected to start working for the employer
2 Applicant (i.e. the employer/the expat/authorized person) Prepare and submit a dossier including:
– Written request for the issuance of a work permit for expat under standard form
– Health certificate
– Criminal record check of the expat
– Approval of Demand on using expats
– Notarized copy of the expat’s passport and visa
– Document proving the position of manager, executive director, specialist, technical worker, or teacher
– Two photos, size 4×6 cm, white background, no glasses
– Other related documents of the expat based on the specific form of working (i.e. document from foreign enterprise sending the expat, contracts specified the working of the expat, service contract duly executed between Vietnamese party and foreign party, certificate of foreign organization permitted to operate under the laws of Vietnam) Ministry of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs or Department of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs. At least 15 working days before the expat is expected to start working for the employer
3 Ministry of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs or local Department of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs Review the dossier and issue the work permit (where applicable) Ministry of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs or local Department of Labor, War Invalids and Social Affairs.
Within 5 working days from the date of receipt of a complete work permit application dossier.
In case the dossier needs supplementation or modification, a written response stating the reasons must be provided.
 Fees: As prescribed in Circular No. 85/2019/TT-BTC dated November 29, 2019, by the Ministry of Finance guiding the fees and charges under the authority of the Provincial People’s Council.
Q4 – If a foreigner is investor, how to get investor visa in Vietnam. Please inform required documents and process.
Pursuant to the Law on Entry, Exit, Transit, and Residence of Foreigners in Vietnam, dated 14 June 2014 (as amended and supplemented from time to time), there are four (4) types of Investor Visa in Vietnam:
Types
Validity Requirements Benefits
1 Visa ĐT1 Maximum 5 years – Issued to foreign investors in Vietnam and representatives of foreign organizations investing in Vietnam and contributing capital of VND 100 billion or more or investing in business lines benefitting from investment incentives, in administrative divisions benefitting from investment incentives decided by the Government. – Apply for a Vietnam temporary card which is valid for up to 10 years,
– Sponsor their spouse/children to get Vietnam TT visa if their visa is symbolized as DT1, DT2 or DT3, and

– Extend the visa following this visa extension instruction.
2 Visa ĐT2 Maximum 5 years – Issued to foreign investors in Vietnam and representatives of foreign organizations investing in Vietnam and contributing capital of VND 50 billion to less than VND 100 billion or investing in business lines benefitting from investment incentives treatment decided by the Government.
3 Visa ĐT3 Maximum 3 years – Issued to foreign investors in Vietnam and representatives of foreign organizations investing in Vietnam and contributing capital of VND 3 billion to less than VND 50 billion.
4 Visa ĐT4 Maximum12 months – Issued to foreign investors in Vietnam and representatives of foreign organizations investing in Vietnam and contributing capital of less than VND 3 billion. N/A
We would like to generally summarize the licensing process as below.
We are pleased to comment and advise on a case by case basis subject to the comprehensive review of your specific circumstance.
INVESTOR RESIDING IN VIETNAM
INVESTOR NOT RESIDING IN VIETNAM
1. Application preparation
– 01 notarized copy of business license and/or investment license
– Written introduction of legal seal and signature of competent persons of the organization (NA16)
– 01 notarized copy of Investment Certification
– Original copy of a valid passport and a valid visa/temporary residence card
– Application form for Vietnamese visa and temporary residence extension.
1. Application preparation
– Official Request for examining and approving foreigners entering the country (form NA2 as defined in Circular No. 04/2015/TT-BCA dated 5 January 2015.
– 01 notarized copy of business license and/or investment license
– Written introduction of legal seal and signature of competent persons of the organization (NA16)
– 01 copy of the Foreign Investor’s passport
– 01 notarized copy of Investment Certification
2. Application submission
The documents then will be sent to one of the following addresses:
– Hanoi Immigration Authority: 44-46 Tran Phu Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi.
– Ho Chi Minh City Immigration Authority: 333-335-337 Nguyen Trai Street, District 1, HCMC
After that, the Investor shall receive a note on when to receive the result.
2. Application submission
The documents then will be sent to one of the following addresses:
– Hanoi Immigration Authority: 44-46 Tran Phu Street, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi.
– Ho Chi Minh City Immigration Authority: 333-335-337 Nguyen Trai Street, District 1, HCMC
The Investors’ Company shall scan the documents and send them to the foreign investors. The Investors then will need:
– a valid original passport with at least 2 blank pages.
– 02 4×6 images of themselves
– Copies of all the required documents as mentioned
– Visa Application Form
After that, so as to earn the Investor Visa, depending on the foreign investors, the documents can be turned in at:
– Embassy/Consulate of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, or
– Registered Vietnam Entry border gate
The process would take place for approximately 5 working days since the Investors’ enterprise submits all the required documents.
Q5 – What to do after the issuance of work permit?
Employer and Expat to enter into Vietnam-law labor contract.
Term of labor contract must be in line with the term of the issued work permit.
The employer shall send the signed lab or contract to the competent authority that issued that work permit. The labor contract shall be the original copy or a certified true copy. Penalty of up to 6M VND (equivalent to US$ 250) shall apply in case of failure to follow this obligation.
Q6 – Is there an indefinite-term labor contract for expat employees?
Local employees: First fixed-term labor contract of up to 36 months -> Second fixed-term labor contract of up to 36 months -> Indefinite-term labor contract.
Expat employees: Multiple fixed term labor contracts. Term of labor contract must be in line with term of issued work permit.
Q7 – If the foreign investor is retired (> 60 years old), can he/she legally live in Vietnam by investor visa?
Yes.
The term ‘foreign investor’ as defined in clause 19 Article 3 of the Law on Investment dated 17 June 2020, are individual who are holding a foreign nationality or an organization established under foreign laws and carrying our business investment activities in Vietnam.
As far as our awareness, there are no statutory restriction on age of foreign investor. As such, a foreign individual investor who is beyond the statutory retirement age can legally reside in Vietnam provided that he/she manages to obtain (i) a validly effective investor visa or (ii) a validly effective temporary resident card (TRC) marked with symbol ‘ĐT’.
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Please do not hesitate to contact Dr. Oliver Massmann under omassmann@duanemorris.com if you have any questions on the above. Dr. Oliver Massmann is the General Director of Duane Morris Vietnam LLC.

Le 4 février 2025, le dernier projet de loi amendée sur la faillite (« le Projet de loi ») a été publié par la Cour populaire suprême (« CPS ») pour consultation publique. Le Projet de loi est censé remplacer la loi actuelle sur la faillite n°51/2014/QH13 du 19 juin 2024 (« Loi sur la faillite de 2014 ») et introduit plusieurs changements significatifs qui pourraient impacter les procédures de faillite, se basant sur la mise en œuvre de la Loi sur la faillite de 2014 depuis son entrée en vigueur. La période initiale de consultation publique est établie jusqu’au 25 février 2025, et la date pour la soumission finale du projet est prévue pour fin mai 2025. S’agissant de la date d’entrée en vigueur du Projet de loi amendée, elle est prévue en 2026.
Les points essentiels du Projet de loi sont les suivants :
1. Les principes fondamentaux de la Loi sur la faillite
Les principes fondamentaux de la Loi sur la faillite ont été ajoutés dans le Projet de loi. Ces principes sont (i) la transparence dans les procédures de redressement et de déclaration de faillite, (ii) l’équité dans la répartition des actifs liés à la faillite, et (iii) la maximisation de la valeur des actifs liés à la faillite.
2. Les conditions pour l’insolvabilité :
Deux scénarios sont prévus par le Projet de loi en ce qui concerne les entités insolvables. Une entité insolvable, selon le Projet de loi, peut-être :
• Scénario 1 (récemment proposé) : les entités qui ne sont pas en mesure de payer des dettes arrivées à échéance depuis 6 mois, sauf en cas de force majeur ou d’obstacles objectifs.
• Scénario 2 (identique à la Loi sur la faillite de 2014) : les entités qui ne sont pas en mesure de payer des dettes arrivées à échéance depuis 3 mois.
Conformément au rapport annexé au Projet de loi (« le Rapport »), la période de 3 mois, initialement prévu dans la Loi sur la faillite de 2014 est considéré comme trop courte au regard du cycle de vie d’une entreprise, et la période de six mois est plus appropriée. Par conséquent, une nouvelle période de six mois est proposée par la CPS pour consultation publique.
3. Les tribunaux spécialisés en matière de faillite
Conformément au Projet de loi et au Rapport, pour se conformer à la nouvelle Loi sur l’organisation des tribunaux populaires datant de 2024, les tribunaux spécialisés sont chargés de traiter des affaires de faillite, et les juges doivent se concentrer sur l’accompagnement des parties dans la collecte de preuves. Cela représente un changement significatif par rapport à la Loi sur la faillite de 2014, qui désignent compétents en la matière des tribunaux de district et provinciaux. En vertu du Projet de loi, les tribunaux spécialisés seront chargés de traiter les affaires de faillite, tandis que les hautes cours populaires examineront les recours contre les décisions d’ouverture de la procédure de faillite et les déclarations de faillite des tribunaux spécialisés. La CPS examinera les recours contre les décisions des hautes cours populaires. Également, selon le Projet de loi, certaines tâches liées aux procédures de faillite, telles que la signification des documents, le dépôt des demandes, le paiement des frais, les réunions et les assemblées de créanciers, sont censées être gérées via une plateforme en ligne. Cette plateforme devrait être développée par la CPS dans un futur proche.
4. Les mesures de préservation des actifs
Le Projet de loi prévoit trois nouvelles mesures de préservation des actifs :
i. la suspension temporaire des paiements de dettes incompatibles avec le plan de redressement ;
ii. la cessation temporaire des paiements aux fonds de retraite et de décès ; et,
iii. la suspension temporaire des déplacements à l’étranger pour les représentants légaux.
5. Les procédures de médiation
La procédure de médiation est introduite par le Projet de loi en tant que nouvelle procédure en matière de redressement et de faillite. Elle prévoit que le liquidateur est chargé de mener la médiation sur le plan de redressement, les litiges et les plaintes relatifs aux actifs des entreprises et des coopératives, et il doit rendre compte des résultats de la médiation au juge.
6. Les nouvelles procédures de redressement
Dans la Loi sur la faillite de 2014, le redressement est prévu dans les procédures de faillite et est applicable aux entités insolvables.
Cependant, le Projet de loi introduit des procédures distinctes pour le redressement, les rendant applicables pour les entités susceptibles d’être insolvables. Il s’agit des entreprises qui, si elles s’acquittent de leurs dettes arrivées à échéance dans les 6 prochains mois ou des dettes déjà échues mais depuis moins de 6 mois à compter de la date de dépôt de la demande d’ouverture de procédures de redressement, verraient leurs activités gravement affectées.
Les procédures de redressement sont envisagées, généralement, de la manière suivante :
1ère procédure : un représentant autorisé soumet une demande auprès d’un tribunal spécialisé.
2ème procédure : dans les 3 jours suivant la date de réception de la demande d’ouverture des procédures de redressement, le président du tribunal spécialisé doit assigner un juge ou un panel de trois juges pour examiner la demande d’ouverture des procédures de redressement.
3ème procédure : dans les 3 jours suivants la date d’assignation, le juge désigné doit examiner la demande afin de déterminer si la prochaine procédure peut être accomplie ou si d’autres actions doivent être prises (par exemple : la modification de la demande, le transfert de la demande vers un autre tribunal spécialisé, le rejet de la demande).
4ème procédure : les négociations entre les entités à risque d’insolvabilité et les créanciers. Le résultat des négociations affectera directement la gestion du redressement par le tribunal spécialisé (par exemple, continuer la procédure ou non).
5ème procédure : le tribunal spécialisé accepte la demande et met en action la procédure de redressement.
6ème procédure : dans les 2 ou 3 mois suivant la date de mise en action, un plan de redressement doit être développé par toutes les parties concernées et ce plan doit être approuvé par l’assemblée des créanciers et mis en œuvre selon le scénario suivant :
i. Scénario 1 : exécution dans les 5 jours à compter de la date d’approbation par l’assemblée des créanciers.
ii. Scénario 2 : exécution selon le calendrier fixé par l’assemblée des créanciers. Dans l’hypothèse où les créanciers ne sont pas mis d’accord sur le calendrier, le plan de redressement devra être mis en œuvre dans les 3 jours à compter de la date d’approbation par l’assemblée des créanciers.
7. La demande de procédure de faillite
Selon le Projet de loi, les créanciers garantis peuvent maintenant déposer des demandes de faillite si les actifs garantis n’existent plus.
8. La faillite étrangère
Le Projet de loi prévoit que les tribunaux vietnamiens peuvent assister dans les procédures de faillite étrangère, par exemple en vérifiant, en faisant l’inventaire, en évaluant, en liquidant et en récupérant les actifs des entreprises concernées par ces procédures. De plus, des dispositions détaillées pour la reconnaissance et l’exécution des jugements de faillite rendus par des tribunaux étrangers ont été introduites. Le Projet inclut des dispositions notables sur l’autorité des tribunaux vietnamiens ainsi que dans certains cas où les décisions de faillite des tribunaux étrangers ne seront pas reconnues au Vietnam.
9. Les dispositions transitoires
Conformément à l’article 181 du Projet de loi sur la faillite, qui sert de disposition transitoire pour le traitement des affaires de faillite en cours, toute procédure de faillite engagée sous la Loi sur la faillite de 2014 mais n’ayant pas encore abouti à une décision de faillite par un tribunal compétent sera soumise à la nouvelle loi sur la faillite.
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Si vous avez des questions, n’hésitez pas à contacter le Dr. Oliver Massmann à l’adresse mail suivante : omassmann@duanemorris.com. Le Dr. Oliver Massmann est le directeur général de Duane Morris Vietnam LLC.

Am 4. Februar 2025 wurde der neueste Entwurf des geänderten Konkursgesetzes („Entwurf“) vom Obersten Volksgerichtshof („SPC“) zur öffentlichen Stellungnahme veröffentlicht. Der Entwurf soll das geltende Konkursgesetz Nr. 51/2014/QH13 vom 19. Juni 2014 („Konkursgesetz 2014“) ersetzen und führt mehrere wesentliche Änderungen ein, die sich auf die Konkursverfahren auswirken können, die auf der Umsetzung des Konkursgesetzes 2014 ab seinem Inkrafttreten bis heute basieren. Die erste Frist für öffentliche Stellungnahmen läuft bis zum 25. Februar 2025 und der voraussichtliche Termin für die Vorlage des endgültigen Entwurfs ist COB Mai 2025, während das geänderte Konkursgesetz voraussichtlich 2026 in Kraft treten wird.
Die wichtigsten Punkte des Entwurfs sind folgende:
1. Grundlegende Prinzipien für das Konkursrecht
Der Entwurf wurde um Grundsätze für das Konkursrecht ergänzt. Es handelt sich um folgende Grundsätze: (i) Transparenz bei den Sanierungsverfahren und der Konkurserklärung; (ii) Fairness bei der Aufteilung der Konkursmasse; und (iii) Maximierung des Wertes der Konkursmasse.
2. Bedingungen für die Insolvenz:
Der Entwurf sieht zwei Szenarien für insolvente Unternehmen vor. Demnach sind insolvente Unternehmen nach dem Entwurf entweder
Szenario 1 (neu vorgeschlagenes Szenario): Unternehmen, die nicht in der Lage sind, fällige Schulden für sechs (06) Monate ab dem Fälligkeitsdatum zu bezahlen, außer in Fällen höherer Gewalt oder objektiver Hindernisse.
Szenario 2 (wie im Konkursgesetz 2014): Unternehmen, die drei (03) Monate ab dem Fälligkeitsdatum nicht in der Lage sind, fällige Schulden zu begleichen.
Laut dem dem Entwurf beigefügten Bericht („Bericht“) wird der Zeitraum von 3 Monaten des Konkursgesetzes 2014 als zu kurz für den Lebenszyklus eines Unternehmens angesehen, und der Zeitraum von 6 Monaten sollte besser geeignet sein. Daher wird vom ASP eine neue Frist von 6 Monaten vorgeschlagen, zu der die Öffentlichkeit Stellung nehmen kann.
3. Spezialisierte Konkursgerichte
Dem Entwurf und dem Bericht zufolge werden gemäß dem neuen Gesetz über die Organisation des Volksgerichts aus dem Jahr 2024 alle Konkursfälle von spezialisierten Gerichten bearbeitet, und die Richter werden sich darauf konzentrieren, die Parteien bei der Beweiserhebung zu unterstützen. Dies ist eine wesentliche Änderung gegenüber dem geltenden Konkursgesetz von 2014, das Gerichte auf Bezirks- oder Provinzebene für die Bearbeitung von Konkursfällen vorsieht. Dem Entwurf zufolge werden die Fachgerichte mit der Bearbeitung von Fällen betraut, während (i) das Oberste Volksgericht den Antrag gegen die Entscheidungen über (i1) die Einleitung des Konkursverfahrens und (i2) die Konkurserklärung der Fachgerichte prüft; und (ii) das SPC den Antrag gegen die Entscheidungen der Obersten Volksgerichte prüft. Darüber hinaus sieht der Entwurf vor, dass relevante Aufgaben im Zusammenhang mit Konkursverfahren wie die Zustellung von Dokumenten, die Einreichung von Anträgen, die Zahlung von Gebühren, Sitzungen und Gläubigerversammlungen über eine Online-Plattform abgewickelt werden sollen. Es ist zu erwarten, dass eine solche Plattform in naher Zukunft vom SPC entwickelt wird.
4. Maßnahmen zur Vermögenserhaltung
Der Entwurf sieht drei (03) neue Maßnahmen zur Vermögenserhaltung vor:
(i) vorübergehende Aussetzung von Schuldenzahlungen, die nicht mit dem Sanierungsplan vereinbar sind;
(ii) vorübergehende Einstellung von Zahlungen an Renten- und Sterbekassen; und
(iii) die vorübergehende Aussetzung von Auslandsreisen für gesetzliche Vertreter.
5. Mediationsverfahren
Das Mediationsverfahren wird in dem Entwurf als neues Verfahren für das Sanierungs-/Konkursverfahren eingeführt. Demnach ist der Konkursverwalter dafür verantwortlich, über den Sanierungsplan, Streitigkeiten und Beschwerden im Zusammenhang mit den Vermögenswerten von Unternehmen und Genossenschaften zu vermitteln und dem Richter die Ergebnisse der Vermittlung mitzuteilen.
6. Neue Sanierungsverfahren
Nach dem aktuellen Konkursgesetz 2014 ist die Sanierung in das Konkursverfahren integriert und gilt für insolvente Unternehmen.
Der Entwurf führt jedoch gesonderte Rehabilitationsverfahren ein, die für insolvenzgefährdete Unternehmen zur Verfügung stehen, d.h. für Unternehmen, deren Geschäftsbetrieb stark beeinträchtigt wird, wenn sie fällige Schulden innerhalb der nächsten sechs Monate oder bereits fällige Schulden, jedoch nicht mehr als sechs Monate ab dem Datum des Antrags auf Einleitung eines Rehabilitationsverfahrens, begleichen müssen.
Das Ablauf des Sanierungsverfahrens ist im Allgemeinen wie folgt geregelt:
1. Schritt. Bevollmächtigter reicht Antrag beim Fachgericht ein.
2. Schritt. Innerhalb von drei Arbeitstagen nach Eingang des Antrags auf Eröffnung des Rehabilitationsverfahrens beauftragt der Vorsitzende des Fachgerichts einen Richter oder einen aus drei Richtern bestehenden Spruchkörper mit der Entscheidung über den Antrag auf Eröffnung des Rehabilitationsverfahrens.
3. Schritt. Innerhalb von drei Arbeitstagen nach dem Zuweisungsdatum prüft der zugewiesene Richter den Antrag, um festzustellen, ob das nächste Verfahren durchgeführt werden kann oder ob andere Maßnahmen seitens der betroffenen Parteien ergriffen werden müssen (d. h. Änderung des Antrags, Verweisung des Antrags an ein anderes Fachgericht, Rückgabe des Antrags).
4. Schritt. Verhandlung zwischen dem von Insolvenz bedrohten Unternehmen und seinen Gläubigern. Das Ergebnis der Verhandlung wirkt sich unmittelbar auf die Behandlung des Sanierungsverfahrens durch das Fachgericht aus (d.h. Fortsetzung oder Aussetzung des Verfahrens).
5. Schritt. Das Fachgericht nimmt den Antrag an und leitet das Rehabilitationsverfahren ein.
6. Schritt. Innerhalb von 2 oder 3 Monaten nach Beginn des Verfahrens muss von allen Beteiligten ein Sanierungsplan ausgearbeitet werden, der von der Gläubigerversammlung gebilligt und nach dem folgenden Szenario durchgeführt wird:
Szenario 1: Innerhalb von fünf (5) Jahren ab dem Datum der Genehmigung durch die Gläubigerversammlung.
Szenario 2: Innerhalb des in der Gläubigerversammlung festgelegten Zeitrahmens. Falls sich die Gläubigerversammlung nicht auf einen Zeitplan einigen konnte, wird der Sanierungsplan innerhalb von drei (3) Jahren ab dem Datum der Genehmigung durch die Gläubigerversammlung durchgeführt.
7. Antrag auf Konkursverfahren
Dem Entwurf zufolge können gesicherte Gläubiger nun einen Konkursantrag stellen, wenn keine gesicherten Vermögenswerte mehr vorhanden sind.
8. Ausländischer Konkurs
Der Entwurf sieht vor, dass vietnamesische Gerichte bei ausländischen Konkursverfahren Unterstützung leisten können, z.B. bei der Überprüfung, Inventarisierung, Bewertung, Liquidierung und Wiedererlangung der Vermögenswerte von Unternehmen, die für ausländische Konkursverfahren relevant sind. Darüber hinaus enthält der Entwurf detaillierte Bestimmungen zur Anerkennung und Vollstreckung ausländischer Gerichtsurteile zu Konkursen. Der Entwurf enthält bemerkenswerte Bestimmungen wie die Zuständigkeit der Gerichte in Vietnam und bestimmte Fälle, in denen Konkursentscheidungen ausländischer Gerichte in Vietnam nicht anerkannt werden.
9. Übergangsbestimmungen
Gemäß Artikel 181 des Entwurfs des Konkursgesetzes, der als Übergangsbestimmung für die Behandlung laufender Konkursverfahren dient, unterliegen alle Konkursverfahren, die nach dem Konkursgesetz 2014 eingeleitet wurden, aber noch nicht das Stadium der Ausstellung einer Konkursentscheidung durch ein zuständiges Gericht erreicht haben, dem neuen Konkursgesetz.
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Bei Fragen und für weitere Einzelheiten steht Ihnen Dr. Oliver Massmann unter omassmann@duanemorris.com gerne zur Verfügung. Dr. Oliver Massmann ist der Generaldirektor von Duane Morris Vietnam LLC.