In depth
A foundation already in motion: pre-tariff reforms
Even before the US tariff announcement, Vietnam had taken significant steps to modernize its IP landscape.
In 2022, the government implemented wide-ranging amendments to its IP laws. These changes aimed to bring Vietnam's legal framework closer to international standards, particularly in emerging areas like digital content and software, and to boost investor confidence.
By mid-2024, momentum picked up further. Plans to establish specialized IP courts, long requested by international stakeholders, gained traction. The courts are expected to be established in Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City and are designed to improve consistency and expertise in IP rulings, addressing a long-standing gap in enforcement infrastructure.
At the same time, Vietnam started making headlines with landmark enforcement actions in the digital space. In 2024, the country issued its first-ever criminal sentence for online copyright infringement, targeting the operator of a pirated movie streaming platform. Months later, the authorities worked with international rightsholders to shut down Fmovies, a site widely known as the world's largest piracy ring. These developments sent a clear message: Vietnam is serious about IP enforcement.
Escalating action: post-tariff crackdown
Following the tariff announcement, Vietnam accelerated its efforts with a comprehensive crackdown on counterfeit goods and trade fraud, demonstrating domestic resolve and responsiveness to international concerns.
In May 2025, the prime minister launched a nationwide campaign to combat smuggling and counterfeit goods. An interministerial task force was mobilized to lead investigations, prioritize high-risk sectors and enforce compliance.
Targeted industries include pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, dietary supplements, petroleum and tobacco, sectors where the risk of counterfeits or origin mislabeling is especially high. Online marketplaces have also come under sharp scrutiny, with stricter advertising and labeling rules introduced to curb the flow of illicit goods through digital channels.
Crucially, enforcement has gone beyond policy. Field operations have stepped up dramatically. In one high-profile case, authorities raided Saigon Square, a bustling commercial hub in Ho Chi Minh City, seizing thousands of counterfeit luxury items. Similar raids occurred in Da Nang and Hanoi, focusing on knockoff fashion, cosmetics and other unauthorized products.
Border control has also intensified. Customs officers are conducting enhanced inspections of imported goods carrying well-known international brand names to prevent fake products from entering the Vietnamese market.
Strengthening global ties
Vietnam is not acting alone. On the international stage, the country has ramped up collaboration with key partners.
Data-sharing with the US is being used to track and prevent transshipment risks. Meanwhile, cooperation with organizations like the Business Software Alliance is targeting the persistent issue of unlicensed software, a major concern for global firms operating in Vietnam.
These efforts are beginning to yield measurable results. According to reports from government-run media outlet, enforcement activity peaked in May 2025, when authorities addressed nearly 4,000 cases. The total value of penalties and seized goods during that month exceeded USD 2.4 million, underscoring the scale and intensity of the crackdown.
What's next: opportunity and caution
Vietnam's multifaceted approach, combining legal reform, proactive enforcement and international cooperation, makes one thing clear: IP protection is now a national priority. This shift is not just about ticking compliance boxes; it is about safeguarding access to global markets and attracting long-term investment.
For brand owners and investors, the takeaway is clear: stronger enforcement is encouraging, but vigilance is still necessary. Identifying where risks remain, and taking steps to protect your brand, will be essential.
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Tuan Linh Nguyen, Senior Government Affairs Manager, has contributed to this legal update.
