As Vietnam’s digital economy surges, intellectual property (IP) violations have emerged as a significant challenge, causing substantial economic losses. According to the National Steering Committee 389 and the General Department of Market Surveillance (GDMS), over 3,270 IP infringement cases were detected in the first half of 2025, with damages estimated in the billions of VND. This marks a 15-20% increase from the same period in 2024, driven by counterfeit goods and copyright violations, trademark violations, particularly on e-commerce platforms.
The Ministry of Industry and Trade reported that authorities handled over 9,919 cases, generating VND 141 billion in state revenue from fines and confiscated goods. Violations were concentrated in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, and border provinces like Lao Cai and Quang Ninh. Counterfeit goods, accounting for 60% of cases, included functional foods, cosmetics, alcohol, and electronics. Copyright infringements (30%) involved software and digital content on platforms like Shopee, Lazada, and TikTok Shop. Estimated losses range from VND 2,500-3,000 billion, impacting legitimate businesses and causing VND 500-700 billion in tax revenue losses. E-commerce accounted for 40% of violations, with sophisticated methods like fast logistics and smuggled goods from China and Cambodia.
The government has intensified anti-counterfeiting efforts under Project 319/QD-TTg (through 2025). A Prime Ministerial directive on June 5, 2025, mandated stricter IP enforcement. The high-profile campaign under Plan 09/KH-TCQLTT resolved over 9,919 cases, removing 23,359 infringing products and 6,254 virtual stalls from e-commerce platforms. Major platforms like Shopee committed to halting counterfeit sales.
A key development is the new code of conduct for e-commerce platforms, supported by the UK Intellectual Property Office (UKIPO). Platforms must disclose seller information, verify product origins, and remove infringing items within 24 hours. They are also required to share transaction data with GDMS and use AI to detect counterfeits. Non-compliance risks fines up to VND 100 million. This initiative has reduced e-commerce violations by 25%, boosting consumer confidence. The Hanoi Anti-Counterfeiting Association’s conference on January 3, 2025, emphasized awareness and legal support for businesses.
Challenges persist, including sophisticated violations, limited specialized personnel, and low consumer awareness. Businesses are urged to adopt blockchain and QR code traceability and engage with Project 319. Consumers should verify products via the TruyXuat.gov.vn app and report violations to GDMS’s hotline (1800-6838). The proposed IP Law amendment, set for National Assembly review in October 2025, aims to strengthen the legal framework, fostering a robust business environment as Vietnam targets high-income status by 2045.
Source: Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade
