The new Competition Law is expected to have an impact on mergers, consolidations, acquisitions, joint ventures between offshore parties. It will also apply to foreign companies, with or without a presence or subsidiary in Vietnam.

The Law on Product and Goods Quality sets out requirements products must meet before they can put on the Vietnamese market. Most notable changes in Decree 74 are the possibility to self-assess product conformity and that several products such as samples and luggage when arriving at Tan Son Nhat international airport, are exempted of inspection.

The Government seems to be more relaxed about foreign investment in the educational sector allowing more Vietnamese students to enrol, but investment capital and teacher qualification requirements have increased. The decree also contains criteria related to educational linkage, approval and accreditation requirements, joint programs for foreign language proficiency, and increased investment capital minimums.

Decree 27 on the use of internet services and online information intends to create an investment environment that will increase online activities ranging from online gaming, social networks and website creation. At the same time, it will regulate the management of social network sites.

The new decree will bolster Vietnam’s PPP framework through simplified administrative procedures, increased transparency in investment projects, and strengthened decentralisation. It will minimise difficulties and promote the PPP form of investment in Vietnam.

Decree 81 provides guidance on the Commercial Law regarding trade promotion activities. It is expected to create a more efficient trade environment with simpler procedures and more detailed regulations on commercial promotions.

Recently the People’s Court has judged that an arbitral award related to a non-compete clause for an employee was correct. It is one of the first times in Vietnam in which the enforcement of a non-compete clause was upheld. Even though it is not a legally binding precedent, it is still an important judgement.

Decree 51 allows foreign investment in the establishment of a commodity exchange in Vietnam, and foreigners can now trade on the commodity exchange, or become a broker or trader. It will also make trading in commodities such as coffee and pepper easier for Vietnamese farmers.

Circular 10 sets out requirements for the facility of gym and fitness centres, and personal trainers.

The 2 Draft Decrees provide changes on calculation of the severance allowance, disciplinary proceedings, disciplinary measures, and higher fines in case of administrative violations.

On 8 March 2018, Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, and Vietnam signed the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP). This agreement is largely the same as the Trans-Pacific Partnership (TPP).

Circular 16 entered into force early 2018 and will further align Vietnam with international Intellectual Property norms. It amends and supplements 49 out of 67 points of Circular 01. Circular 16 contains application rules, examination procedures, deadlines, and provides information on changes related to trademarks, patents and industrial designs.