The Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee has issued a 2026 inspection plan to strengthen enforcement of laws on prostitution prevention and tighten oversight of businesses considered at higher risk of facilitating prostitution-related activities.

According to the city, 7,066 businesses fall into this category, including hotels, guesthouses, nightclubs, bars, karaoke venues, massage establishments, dimly lit cafés, as well as serviced apartments and tourist villas available for short-term rental.

At least 60% of businesses to be inspected

Under the plan, authorities aim to inspect at least 60% of these establishments during 2026, equivalent to 4,178 venues.

The city's Interagency Inspection Team 178, with the Department of Health serving as the standing agency, will directly inspect 60 businesses, including 40 scheduled inspections and 20 surprise inspections.

At the same time, local Interagency Inspection Team 178 units at the ward, commune and special-zone levels will conduct inspections within their respective jurisdictions.

Focus on legal compliance

Inspectors will examine compliance with regulations covering public security, business licensing, temporary residence registration, labor contracts and mandatory health checks for employees.

Authorities will also closely review whether businesses comply with commitments prohibiting prostitution, pornographic activities and sexually explicit services on their premises.

Unannounced inspections will be launched whenever authorities receive complaints, public reports, media information or intelligence gathered through law enforcement operations.

Businesses found to have repeatedly violated regulations or committed serious offenses may face administrative penalties and have their business licenses revoked.

Tuan Kiet