Vietnam passes first AI law to strict safeguards
The law includes sandbox testing, a National AI Development Fund, and a startup voucher scheme to encourage safe AI innovation.
Vietnam’s National Assembly has passed its first AI Law, advancing the regulation and development of AI nationwide. The legislation was approved with overwhelming support, alongside amendments to the Intellectual Property Law and a revised High Technology Law.
The AI Law will take effect on March 1, 2026.
The law establishes core principles, prohibits certain acts, and outlines a risk management framework for AI systems. The law combines safeguards for high-risk AI with incentives for innovation, including sandbox testing, a National AI Development Fund, and startup vouchers.
AI oversight will be centralised under the Government, led by the Ministry of Science and Technology, with assessments needed only for high-risk systems approved by the Prime Minister. The law allows real-time updates to this list to keep pace with technological advances.
Flexible provisions prevent obsolescence by avoiding fixed technology lists or rigid risk classifications. Lawmakers emphasised the balance between regulation and innovation, aiming to create a safe yet supportive environment for AI growth in Vietnam.
Would you like to learn more about AI, tech and digital diplomacy? If so, ask our Diplo chatbot!
