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 and Unifying Existing Concepts
The proposed law seeks to clarify and unify terms and concepts within the e-commerce domain to ensure consistency across various legal frameworks. This includes defining key terms such as:
- Digital platforms
- Intermediary digital platforms
- Other relevant e-commerce concepts
By standardizing these definitions, the legislation aims to reduce ambiguity and improve coherence across the regulatory landscape.
Specifying E-Commerce Operations and Participants
The new law will clearly outline the forms of e-commerce activities and identify the participants involved. It will also delineate their respective rights and obligations, thereby creating a comprehensive framework that encompasses all e-commerce models. This policy is designed to enhance regulatory efficiency and ensure equitable treatment of all stakeholders.
Responsibilities of E-Commerce Support Service Providers
The proposed legislation will introduce specific responsibilities for e-commerce support service providers. This will enable state management agencies to implement technical measures to:
- Prevent the dissemination of information about goods and services that violate e-commerce regulations.
- Ensure compliance with regulatory standards.
Electronic Contract Authentication Services
To address the growing use of electronic contracts, the law will include provisions for their authentication. This measure aims to:
- Ensure fair treatment for all types of trusted service providers.
- Facilitate the detection and resolution of legal violations related to electronic contracts.
Promoting Sustainable E-Commerce Practices
The proposed law will emphasize the development of sustainable and environmentally friendly e-commerce practices. By encouraging green growth, it aims to:
- Contribute to effective economic development.
- Create value for the community.
- Minimize environmental impacts associated with digital commerce.
The Ministry of Industry and Trade intends to incorporate this proposal into the National Assembly’s law and ordinance development program for 2025. The proposal is scheduled for submission to the National Assembly for discussion during its 10th session in October 2025 and is expected to be approved in the 11th session in May 2026.
The proposed e-commerce law represents a significant step toward modernizing and unifying Vietnam’s e-commerce regulations. By addressing critical issues such as participant responsibilities, electronic contract authentication, and sustainable practices, the new law aims to support the rapid evolution of the digital economy while ensuring a fair and regulated environment for all stakeholders.
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