Under Plan No. 2545/KH-BVHTTDL issued on May 8, 2026, the ministry will implement the directives outlined in Official Dispatch No. 38/CĐ-TTg dated May 5, 2026 by the Prime Minister on strengthening efforts to combat intellectual property infringement within sectors under the ministry’s state management.

The inspections will run through May 30, 2026.

Authorities will establish inspection teams to examine compliance with regulations related to copyright and neighboring rights among enterprises, organizations and individuals.

The inspections will focus on businesses and entities operating in digital content, media, advertising, film distribution, music, software, information technology, e-commerce, internet services and social media platforms involved in exploiting copyrighted works and programs in the online environment.

The inspection teams will review the use of copyrighted works, sound and video recordings, broadcasting programs and compliance with licensing and royalty payment obligations.

Authorities will also examine the use of properly licensed computer software, as well as activities involving the uploading, copying and distribution of content on websites, digital platforms and social media networks.

In addition, inspectors will check the storage of records, contracts and documents related to copyright and neighboring rights.

The authorities will simultaneously inspect legal documentation, including business registration certificates, sector-specific operating licenses, contracts involving the transfer and use of copyrighted works, authorization documents permitting rights exploitation and royalty payment receipts.

If violations are discovered, inspection teams will issue official reports, request the removal of infringing content, recommend administrative penalties and transfer serious cases to competent authorities for further handling in accordance with the law.

The Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism stressed that all inspections must comply with legal regulations and be conducted objectively, publicly and transparently without disrupting the normal operations of businesses, organizations and individuals involved.

The ministry said inspections would focus on sectors and activities considered at high risk for copyright violations in the digital environment.

Authorities also emphasized the need for close coordination among relevant agencies and units during inspection and enforcement processes.

Earlier, on May 6, the Copyright Office of Vietnam urged individuals and businesses not to use unlicensed computer programs or illegally exploit copyrighted works, performances, sound recordings, video recordings and broadcasting programs.

A previous government statement also highlighted growing concerns over copyright violations involving films, music, television programs, computer software and video games in Vietnam’s digital space.

Tinh Le