The legal framework has recently introduced significant updates regarding local administrative organization and sanctions in health and transportation sectors.
Adjustments to the number of deputy directors at provincial departments According to Decree 370, which takes effect from January 1, 2026, the leadership structure of specialized agencies under Provincial People’s Committees will be adjusted. While the standard average is three deputy directors per department, those undergoing mergers or administrative consolidations may increase this number by one to three positions. Specifically, Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City are entitled to appoint up to 10 additional deputy directors beyond the general quota to ensure effective management.
Sanctions for e-cigarettes and heated tobacco products Starting December 31, 2025, Decree 371/2025 establishes strict penalties for the use and facilitation of alternative tobacco. Individuals using e-cigarettes or heated tobacco face fines between 3 and 5 million VND. Moreover, owners or managers of premises who allow others to use these products on their property will be subject to fines ranging from 5 to 10 million VND for individuals, and double for organizations.
Stricter controls on self-drive vehicle rental services Effective March 2026, the self-drive rental market will be governed by more rigorous rules under Decree 336/2025. Business entities failing to sign proper rental contracts or renting vehicles to individuals without valid driving licenses will face substantial fines. The maximum penalty for providing vehicles to unlicensed drivers is set at 60 million VND for organizations. Additionally, providing a driver within a self-drive rental agreement is classified as a regulatory violation.