Compliance Timeline
Upcoming regulatory effective dates and compliance deadlines
June 2025
Decrees 167 & 182/2025: Import Duty Exemptions for High-Tech and R&D Sectors
In July 2025, Vietnam issued Decree 167/2025/ND-CP (effective August 15, 2025) and Decree 182/2025/ND-CP (effective July 1, 2025) providing comprehensive import duty exemptions for high-tech manufacturing and R&D. Four categories of goods qualify: raw materials and components for certified high-tech enterprises, inputs for digital technology product manufacturing, machinery and equipment for scientific research, and specialized materials for innovation centers. Semiconductor, biotech, and electronics sectors benefit most significantly.
Vietnam's New Trade Union Law: Foreign Workers Can Join Unions from July 2025
Vietnam's new Trade Union Law takes effect July 1, 2025, for the first time allowing foreign workers in Vietnam to join trade unions and participate in workplace advocacy. Additionally, the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) now handles foreign worker oversight, replacing the Ministry of Labour (MoLISA) as of March 2025. The law also strengthens collective bargaining rights and workplace safety standards for all employees.
Decree 181/2025: New VAT Law Guidance with Continued 8% Rate Through 2026
Decree 181/2025/ND-CP, issued July 1, 2025, provides detailed guidance for Vietnam's new VAT Law. The standard 10% VAT rate continues to be reduced to 8% through December 31, 2026, supporting economic recovery. Key changes include a stricter non-cash payment threshold of VND 5 million (down from VND 20 million) for input VAT deduction eligibility, expanded VAT exemptions for imported unprocessed goods, and clearer definitions of the 5% reduced rate categories.