The Government of Vietnam has introduced a series of measures spanning consumer protection, defence recruitment and industry restructuring, signalling a focus on regulatory clarity and economic resilience as the country enters 2026. Key actions include a new advertising decree, a talent-attraction package for the People’s Army, corporate portfolio trimming at a major power-construction group and a record year for cement production.
Vietnam advertising regulation 2025 tightens standards for food and medical adverts
A new decree — Nghị định 343/2025 — detailing provisions of the Advertising Law takes effect on 15 February. The regulation establishes mandatory content for food and healthcare service advertising to strengthen consumer information and limit misleading claims.
Under the decree, adverts for all food products must state the product name and the name and address of the organisation or individual responsible for the product. Specific labelling language is required for categories such as health supplements, dietary supplements, medical nutrition and foods for special dietary use. For example, adverts for health supplements must include the phrase “Thực phẩm bảo vệ sức khỏe” and must carry the disclaimer that the product is not a medicine and does not substitute for medical treatment.
Advertisements on radio or television shorter than 15 seconds are exempt from spoken disclaimers but must display the mandatory caution visually. For healthcare services, adverts must include the facility name, address, licence number and operating hours, and must limit claims to the scope of practice approved by health authorities.
Generous allowances to draw top talent into the People’s Army
Separately, the Government issued Nghị định 363/2025 to attract and retain talent in the People’s Army. The policy targets civil servants, professionals and outstanding graduates, both domestic and overseas, offering pathways into military service and contractual roles for strategic functions.
Notably, graduates who complete training with top honours and are recruited into the armed forces may receive an additional monthly allowance of up to 250% of their base salary for five years from the date of appointment. Other categories may qualify for allowances up to 350% of current pay depending on their role and contract.
Vneco to divest underperforming subsidiaries
State-linked power-construction group Vneco has approved a proposal to divest equity stakes in nine subsidiaries and associates, citing sustained underperformance and accumulated losses that have weighed on consolidated results. The move will substantially reduce Vneco’s network of affiliates, which at the end of Q3 2025 comprised ten subsidiaries and two associates.
Vneco, with roots dating to 1988, has nonetheless expanded its charter capital and secured significant contracts with international partners since 2025. Management framed the divestment as part of a broader portfolio optimisation to restore profitability and focus on core contracting capabilities.
Cement sector reaches new production and consumption highs
The Ministry of Construction reports that national cement and clinker production for 2025 is estimated at 104 million tonnes, an 11% increase on 2024, while total consumption rose by about 16% to roughly 112 million tonnes. Domestic demand surpassed 75 million tonnes for the first time, reflecting a strong recovery in the construction sector.
Exports also expanded, aided by a mid-2025 reduction in clinker export duties, and brought in approximately US$1.362 billion. Nevertheless, producers face margin pressure from rising input costs, including higher electricity tariffs and raw-material prices, prompting several price adjustments during the year.
Together, these measures and market developments suggest Vietnam is pursuing clearer regulatory standards and targeted human-capital and corporate reforms while its industrial base shows signs of recovery amid cost headwinds.
Key Takeaways:
- Vietnam advertising regulation 2025 introduces mandatory disclosures for food and medical service adverts, including clear product names and responsible parties.
- New military recruitment policy offers generous allowances, with top graduates eligible for up to 250% salary support for five years.
- State contractor Vneco plans to divest stakes in nine underperforming units as part of a restructuring to improve consolidated results.
- Cement output hit a record in 2025, with domestic consumption and exports rebounding despite cost pressures.
