Vietnam Reinforces Intellectual Property Enforcement Amid US Special 301 Report Concerns

Vietnam’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Pham Thu Hang affirmed the country’s firm commitment to addressing intellectual property (IP) violations during a regular press briefing held on Thursday. The statement came in response to concerns raised in the United States’ 2026 Special 301 Report on intellectual property rights.

Hang emphasized that Vietnam’s legal framework for intellectual property has undergone steady improvements and alignment over recent years. Starting with the 2005 Intellectual Property Law and including subsequent amendments, the legal system has evolved to become more comprehensive and modern. Notably, the revised IP law adopted in 2025 reflects Vietnam’s efforts to align domestic regulations with the realities of national development and its obligations under new-generation free trade agreements to which Vietnam is a party.

Beyond legislative reforms, the Vietnamese Government has issued various directives and policies aimed at strengthening IP enforcement. These measures target smuggling, trade fraud, counterfeit goods, and other intellectual property violations. According to Hang, these initiatives demonstrate Vietnam’s consistent policy to enhance IP protection, supporting sustainable development, fostering a transparent and secure business environment, and ensuring effective implementation of international commitments.

Highlighting Vietnam’s enforcement record, Hang reported that in 2025, authorities handled thousands of IP infringement cases. Market surveillance forces alone addressed 3,306 violations in traditional markets and 599 cases involving e-commerce platforms and social media. Additionally, over 1,200 websites suspected of infringing copyright and related rights were blocked.

Vietnam’s approach to IP protection also includes a recent nationwide crackdown. Deputy Prime Minister Ho Quoc Dung signed Official Dispatch No. 38, directing authorities across the country to intensify measures to combat, prevent, and strictly handle intellectual property rights violations starting May 7, 2026.

In her remarks, Hang called on the United States to provide an objective and balanced assessment of Vietnam’s efforts and achievements in IP protection. She underscored Vietnam’s active and effective cooperation with the US in this field and expressed readiness to share information and clarify policies and regulations.

"We believe both sides should continue close coordination to properly address differences for the benefit of both countries and toward building a stable, balanced, and sustainable framework for economic and trade cooperation," Hang stated.

Vietnam’s firm stance on intellectual property enforcement aligns with its broader strategy to build a healthy and transparent business environment and to transform its growth model with science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation as key drivers. These efforts reflect the country’s commitment to upholding international IP standards while fostering economic development and trade partnerships.