Stories from Vietnam

Vietnam is navigating new economic drivers and structural challenges as it seeks to maintain its growth momentum in 2026. Mandatory waste source classification became law on January 1, 2025, under Government Decree 45 of the Environmental Protection Law. Violators face fines ranging from 500,000 to 1,000,000 VND. Implementation remains difficult due to challenges in identifying and recording specific violations in practice. Vietnam faces difficulties implementing waste sorting regulations required to build a circular economy. Enforcement is hindered by inadequate infrastructure, including a lack of sorting bins and collection systems that fail to separate waste. Authorities noted that while regulations exist, practical implementation and the ability to issue fines are currently limited by these logistical gaps.

Vietnamese officials are advocating for more rigorous measures and specific legal sanctions to prevent child drowning incidents. Experts suggest that while mandatory swimming lessons in schools may be difficult due to budget constraints, extracurricular programs and creating 'safe home environments' are essential. The push comes as part of a broader effort to improve child safety through better supervision and infrastructure. Statistics in Vietnam show more than 2,000 children die from drowning every year. Drowning is cited as one of the leading causes of death among children in the country. Authorities and families are urged to monitor children constantly to prevent accidents near lakes, rivers, and streams. Local governments are advised to install warning signs to protect children.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism in Vietnam has called on local authorities and businesses to accelerate the development of creative night tourism products. This law replaces previous provisions on judicial assistance for prisoner transfers. The 2025 law, comprising 4 chapters and 48 articles, designates the Ministry of Public Security as the central focal point for procedures. It also allows for electronic submission of case files and documents. Article 25 of the 2025 Law on the Transfer of Sentenced Persons stipulates conditions for transferring prisoners. By the end of 2025, the country is expected to have over 36,000 cooperatives and 153 cooperative unions. There are also more than 81,000 cooperative groups. The average annual revenue per cooperative is estimated at approximately 3,185 million VND.