Vietnam has passed its first comprehensive artificial intelligence law, Law No. 134/2025/QH15, marking one of the most advanced AI regulatory frameworks in Southeast Asia. Effective from 1 March 2026, the legislation establishes a risk-based system governing the development, deployment, and use of AI technologies by both domestic and foreign entities operating in the country. The law classifies AI systems into high, medium, and low-risk categories based on their potential impact on safety, human rights, and national security. High-risk systems face strict requirements, including mandatory conformity assessments, ongoing monitoring, human oversight, and registration through a national AI portal. Medium- and low-risk systems are subject to lighter but still structured transparency and reporting obligations. A key feature of the law is its extraterritorial scope, requiring foreign AI providers to establish a local presence or authorized representative in Vietnam for high-risk systems. It also introduces strict rules on transparency, mandating clear labeling of AI-generated content to prevent misinformation and deepfakes. The legislation further prohibits harmful uses of AI, including manipulation, exploitation of vulnerable groups, and violations of data protection or cybersecurity laws, while also setting up incident reporting mechanisms and transitional compliance periods for existing systems.
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