The Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) has recently released a draft Law on Science, Technology, and Innovation, outlining significant changes aimed at strengthening science and technology human resources, incentivizing science and technology workers, commercializing research outcomes, and improving the management of state budget-funded science and technology programs. Expansion of Science and Technology Human Resources…

From July 1, 2024, Vietnam will officially implement e-notarization through in-person and online modes, as stipulated in the 2024 Law on Notarization. This pivotal reform aims to enhance convenience and accessibility while maintaining the legal integrity of notarized documents. Modes of E-Notarization Offline E-Notarization In offline e-notarization, applicants engage directly with notaries in person to…

Effective February 1, 2025, Vietnam’s energy sector will enter a transformative phase with the implementation of the new Electricity Law. This comprehensive reform replaces the nearly two-decade-old legislation, addressing challenges and creating a robust legal framework to promote clean energy development and a competitive energy market. Approved by the National Assembly on November 30, 2024,…

The Ministry of Industry and Trade has proposed the development of a comprehensive e-commerce law aimed at enhancing the regulatory framework for digital commerce. This proposed legislation will address several critical aspects of e-commerce operations, ensuring alignment with current legal regulations and fostering sustainable growth. Below are the major policies outlined in the proposal: Supplementing…

Effective July 1, 2024, Vietnam’s new Value-Added Tax (VAT) Law introduces significant changes to the country’s tax framework, reflecting the evolving dynamics of the digital economy. Under this law, foreign suppliers without permanent establishments in Vietnam will now be liable for VAT on goods and services sold to the country via e-commerce channels or other…

On December 31, 2024, the Vietnamese government issued Decree No. 182/2024/ND-CP, providing groundbreaking support measures for semiconductor and artificial intelligence (AI) research and development (R&D) businesses. This decree, effective immediately, underscores Vietnam’s commitment to fostering innovation and technological advancement in high-tech sectors. Key Provisions of Decree 182 Support for Initial Investment Costs Businesses investing in…

The Indonesian government has enacted significant changes to its patent framework with the passage of Law No. 65 of 2024, marking the third amendment to the Patent Law since its inception under Law No. 13 of 2016. This amendment, effective October 28, 2024, continues Indonesia’s efforts to align its intellectual property (IP) system with evolving…

The Intellectual Property Office of Vietnam (IPVN) has issued Notice No. 4031/TB-SHTT dated December 26, 2024, regarding the unified application of the International Patent Classification (IPC) version 2025.01. This version, adopted under the Strasbourg Agreement on the International Patent Classification, will be officially implemented in Vietnam starting January 1, 2025. Key Updates and Implementation Details…

The National Assembly Standing Committee has taken significant steps to shape Vietnam’s legislative landscape by adopting Resolution 59/2024/UBTVQH15. This resolution introduces key adjustments to the 2025 Law- and Ordinance-Making Program, underscoring a commitment to addressing pressing legal and societal needs. Key Additions to the 2025 Legislative Program Under Resolution 59/2024/UBTVQH15, adopted on December 11, the…