The overwhelming support reflects broad consensus on the urgency of establishing a legal framework for AI - one that positions Vietnam to catch up with global AI trends and enhance national competitiveness in the digital era.

This milestone marks the first time Vietnam has created a standalone law for artificial intelligence. Comprising 35 articles, the law is built on the principle of “governance for development” - designed to balance innovation with risk control and align with international standards, while preserving Vietnam’s technological sovereignty.

A central principle of the law is that humans remain at the core of AI development. AI must serve people, not replace them, and key decisions involving AI must be overseen by human judgment.

The law lays the groundwork for AI sovereignty by enabling state investment in core infrastructure, including a national AI computing center and a regulated open data system. These investments are intended to reduce computing costs, remove market entry barriers, and promote a more competitive and transparent AI ecosystem.

The law introduces several supportive mechanisms, such as the creation of a National AI Development Fund, an AI Voucher program to assist businesses in adopting AI, and a sandbox framework for controlled testing of sensitive AI applications.

These tools are designed to reduce risk, lower the cost of experimentation, and give tech startups - especially deep-tech firms - a safe, legally flexible environment in which to innovate.

The legislation also addresses emerging AI challenges, including AI-generated content, algorithmic ethics, and the accountability of cross-border AI platforms. These provisions are intended to help Vietnam integrate with global standards while maintaining digital sovereignty.

One of the most significant features of the law is risk-based AI regulation. Under this model, AI systems are classified by level of potential harm or societal impact, with corresponding legal obligations.

Applications that could pose high risks to rights or interests - such as those in finance, healthcare, justice, labor, and education - will be subject to stricter requirements for data transparency, testing, monitoring, and human oversight.

This risk-based approach is intended to ensure a balanced path: promoting innovation while preventing unintended harm.

Alongside regulatory mechanisms, the law places strong emphasis on human capital development. It mandates the creation of a long-term National AI Talent Strategy, the integration of AI into general education, and the encouragement of universities to launch new AI programs, expand academic autonomy, and attract international experts.

Vietnam’s national AI workforce development program is expected to nurture a new generation of high-quality AI engineers and researchers.

The passage of the AI law is seen as a timely and necessary step, as artificial intelligence becomes embedded in all aspects of life. A clear and complete legal framework will help Vietnam avoid falling behind while ensuring data security, privacy, and the sustainable growth of its AI ecosystem.

With this law, Vietnam officially enters a new era - one of responsible, safe, and creative AI development - establishing a foundation for AI to become a key driver of its digital economy.

Thai Khang