Vietnam became the first country in Southeast Asia to implement a comprehensive artificial intelligence law, which came into effect on 1 March (01/03). The law focuses on the risks of generative AI and requires human oversight and control, similar to the European Union’s AI Act.

Key Requirements of the Law

The legislation requires companies to clearly label AI-generated content, including deepfakes that cannot be easily distinguished from reality. It also mandates that businesses disclose to users when they are interacting with an artificial, rather than a human, agent.

The law applies to developers, providers, and deployers of AI technologies, whether they are Vietnamese organisations or foreign companies operating in Vietnam.

Government Objectives and Strategy

According to a government report in December, the law "paves the way for Vietnam to deeply integrate with international standards while maintaining digital sovereignty."

Vietnam has set ambitious double-digit growth targets for the next five years, with the expansion of the digital economy a key part of its development strategy. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh stated that AI and the data economy are "pillars" of a "more sustainable and smarter new development" model.

The law also provides for the establishment of a national AI computing centre, enhanced data resources, and large language models in Vietnamese.

Global Context

Only a few countries have implemented far-reaching AI regulations. South Korea became the first country to have an AI law fully in effect in January, while the European Union is gradually phasing in rules to be fully applied in 2027.

The United States has expressed concern about "excessive regulation," with Vice President JD Vance warning that it could stifle innovation in the sector.

Expert Views on Implementation

Vietnam-based law firm LNT & Partners called the legislation "not the final word" but a "decisive starting point." The firm noted that "the true impact will depend on implementing decrees, sectoral regulations, and enforcement practice," and highlighted that the law establishes responsibility, human control, and risk management as core themes.

Patrick Keil, senior legal adviser at DFDL, described the law as "a significant statement of national ambition" but noted that businesses will remain uncertain about obligations until further guidance is issued.

At an AI summit in New Delhi in February, 91 countries and international organisations called for "secure, trustworthy and robust" AI, though some safety campaigners criticized the declaration as too generic.

PHOTO: FREEPIK

This article was created with AI assistance.

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