Vietnam Enacts New Regulations in August: Child Safety, Pet Control, Digitalization Drive

Vietnam is set to implement several significant new regulations from August 1, 2024, aimed at enhancing public safety, improving public health, and driving digitalization. Firstly, in the realm of traffic safety, measures for child protection in vehicles will be strengthened. From August 15, drivers will receive a warning for failing to use appropriate child safety seats or restraint systems when transporting children under 10 years old or shorter than 1.35 meters. This marks a shift from direct fines under current regulations to a warning first. Child restraint systems are defined by fixed labels indicating weight or height limits and installation direction. Secondly, regulations concerning public health and safety will be tightened, particularly regarding pet control. Effective August 1, under new veterinary administrative penalty regulations, individuals walking dogs in public without a muzzle or leash will face fines ranging from VND 1 million to VND 2 million. This includes allowing dogs to roam freely. This represents a substantial increase compared to current penalties. To promote digitalization, incentives are being introduced for users of VNeID, Vietnam's digital identity application. From August 15, 2024, to February 28, 2027, citizens with a Level 2 VNeID account will receive a 50% reduction on registration fees for used cars (second registration) and a full exemption for used motorcycles. This incentive is limited to once per year and capped at five times the base salary (approximately VND 12.65 million). Furthermore, administrative penalty authority in land use matters will be enhanced. From August 31, commune-level People's Committee chairpersons will be empowered to issue administrative fines of up to VND 250 million for land use violations. This is a significant increase from the previous VND 5 million limit and surpasses the authority of district-level chairpersons. Commune leaders will also gain the power to temporarily suspend land-related consulting services for up to three months. AI usage will also see strengthened risk management. A list, effective August 15, categorizes 46 AI systems as high-risk, subject to stringent management requirements. These systems have the potential to cause significant harm to individuals' lives, health, and legal interests, as well as national security. They span various sectors including education, healthcare, finance, judicial proceedings, transportation, and aviation. These new regulations are expected to be crucial steps in enhancing safety, health, and accelerating digital transformation across Vietnamese society. Source: VnExpress