Vietnam: New IP Enforcement Plan
Vietnam has introduced a new action plan aimed at significantly strengthening intellectual property enforcement between 2026 and 2027. On 17 July 2026, the Ministry of Industry and Trade issued Decision No. 1782/QD BCT, establishing a more coordinated and technology driven approach to combating counterfeiting, online IP infringement and copyright piracy.
A major focus of the plan is administrative enforcement. Authorities will prioritize high risk goods, major online marketplaces, cross border platforms and digital distribution channels. Vietnam also plans to conduct at least one nationwide enforcement campaign each year targeting sectors, locations and businesses considered particularly vulnerable to IP violations.
Ecommerce enforcement is another central element. Authorities intend to improve monitoring and early detection of suspected infringements on digital platforms. One specific target requires all urgent alerts involving suspected ecommerce IP violations to be electronically transferred to the appropriate authorities within 24 hours. Government departments and local market surveillance agencies will also expand information sharing to improve investigations and enforcement.
Technology will play an increasingly important role. The plan specifically considers the use of artificial intelligence, big data and blockchain for tracing products, collecting evidence, identifying violations and supporting administrative enforcement. Authorities are also expected to explore
advanced systems for verifying product origins and developing warning mechanisms for online trade fraud and IP infringement.
Copyright piracy receives particular attention. The government plans stronger action against unauthorized distribution and use of protected content, alongside closer cooperation between enforcement agencies. Provincial authorities are expected to increase copyright and related rights inspections and enforcement cases by 20% annually.
The plan also promotes stronger cooperation between government agencies, rights holders and ecommerce platforms. Possible measures include databases containing information about rights holders, greater attention to frequently infringed brands and formal mechanisms allowing platforms and authorities to respond more quickly to suspected violations.
Baker McKenzie advises companies to actively participate in this new enforcement environment. Rights holders should prepare strong evidence, maintain accurate product and distributor data, cooperate with authorities and platforms, and combine administrative action with platform takedowns, customs measures, civil litigation or criminal referrals when appropriate.
