Through the Artificial Intelligence Law: The first legal framework for AI development.

For the first time, Vietnam has issued fundamental regulations on AI, including principles for development and application, placing people at the center, and requiring AI to serve humanity.

On the afternoon of December 10th, continuing the program of the 10th session, the 15th National Assembly voted to pass the Law on Artificial Intelligence (AI) with 429 out of 434 attending delegates (equivalent to 90.70% of the total number of National Assembly delegates) voting in favor.

This is Vietnam's first law comprehensively regulating the development, application, and governance of artificial intelligence, effective from March 1, 2026.

The adoption of the AI ​​Law marks a significant step forward in perfecting the legal framework for the development of science and technology, demonstrating the National Assembly's determination to promptly institutionalize the Politburo 's policy in Resolution 57 on breakthroughs in science and technology development, innovation, and national digital transformation.

The law comprises 35 articles and is designed with a "management for development" orientation, ensuring a balance between risk control and innovation promotion.

For the first time, Vietnam has issued fundamental regulations on AI, including principles for development and application, placing humans at the center, requiring AI to serve humans, not replace humans in important decisions, and to be supervised by humans.

The law emphasizes the goal of building AI self-reliance, from computing infrastructure and data to research capabilities, helping Vietnam build a strong AI workforce capable of competing internationally; it also allows the State to invest in a national AI computing center and develop a controlled open data system to reduce computing costs, remove barriers to market entry, and promote a more competitive and transparent AI ecosystem; and facilitates businesses' access to infrastructure.

In parallel, the Law establishes support mechanisms to promote AI applications, including: the National AI Development Fund, AI Vouchers to support businesses in applying AI, and the establishment of a controlled testing sandbox for sensitive AI solutions.

These are crucial tools for reducing risk, lowering testing costs, and enabling technology companies, especially high-tech startups, to test sensitive AI applications in an environment free from certain legal liabilities.

The AI ​​law simultaneously addresses emerging issues such as AI-generated content, algorithmic ethics, and the responsibility of cross-border AI service providers, thereby paving the way for Vietnam to integrate more deeply with international standards while maintaining its digital sovereignty .

A key aspect of the Law is its risk-based management approach. Accordingly, AI systems are classified according to their impact and risk levels, and are then associated with corresponding legal obligations.

Applications that pose a high risk to the legitimate rights and interests of organizations and individuals (in the fields of finance, healthcare, justice, labor, education, etc.) will have to meet stricter standards regarding data, verification, monitoring, and human intervention mechanisms.

This approach allows for a balance between two objectives: encouraging innovation in AI and controlling potential societal consequences.

Along with regulations on technology and management, the AI ​​Law places a significant emphasis on human resource development. The law requires the development of a long-term national AI human resource strategy; the integration of basic AI knowledge into general education; and encourages universities to open new majors, expand academic autonomy, and attract international experts.

The national AI human resource development program will contribute to the formation of a high-quality team of AI experts and engineers in the future.

The National Assembly's approval of the AI ​​Law is considered a necessary and timely step as AI is deeply penetrating all aspects of life. A comprehensive and clear legal framework will help Vietnam avoid the risk of falling behind, ensure data security, privacy, and the sustainable development of the AI ​​ecosystem.

From here, Vietnam officially enters a new phase, a phase of proactive, responsible, safe, and innovative AI development, creating a foundation for AI to become one of the most important growth drivers of the digital economy.

(VNA/Vietnam+)

Source: https://www.vietnamplus.vn/thong-qua-luat-tri-tue-nhan-tao-khung-phap-ly-dau-tien-cho-phat-trien-ai-post1082261.vnp