On 10 December 2025, the National Assembly of Vietnam passed Law
No. 134/2025/QH15 on Artificial Intelligence (the “AI
Law”). Taking effect on 1 March 2026, this landmark
legislation makes Vietnam one of the first countries in Southeast
Asia to establish a comprehensive, risk-based regulatory framework
for the research, development, provision, deployment, and use of AI
systems. The AI Law applies to both domestic and foreign entities,
introducing stringent compliance obligations for high-risk
applications while establishing incentives, funding, and sandbox
mechanisms to foster innovation.
Key highlights:
1. Risk-Based Classification System
Mirroring global regulatory trends such as the EU AI Act, the AI
Law categorizes AI systems into three risk tiers based on their
potential impact on human rights, safety, security, and public
interests: