How Vietnam’s nine new laws are rewriting rules for schools, salaries and state money

The laws were passed by the National Assembly in its ninth session and will begin taking effect from August 2025 and January 2026.

One of the biggest changes comes through the new Teachers’ Law, which recognises educators across public and private schools as professionals and places their salaries at the top of the public-sector pay scale.

For the first time, teachers in private schools will be treated equally with public school teachers in terms of rights and status.

The law also gives teachers more room to take part in scientific research and innovation, and promises housing, health and hardship allowances.

The revised Law on Employment expands job support to all workers aged 15 and above, including those without formal contracts.

It also covers people who are currently unemployed and includes updated rules on job training, labour registration and unemployment insurance.

Tax reforms are also on the way.

A new Law on Special Consumption Tax adds sugary soft drinks and larger air conditioners to the list of taxable goods, while updating rules on exemptions for exports and transport-related items.

The revised Corporate Income Tax law changes the rules for what qualifies as taxable income and offers incentives for innovation and green development.

The new Law on Chemicals introduces stricter safety controls and promotes the sustainable growth of Vietnam’s chemical industry.

It simplifies paperwork for businesses and aims to prevent harm to the public and the environment.

Other reforms include stricter rules on online advertising, better oversight of state-owned companies, new support for energy efficiency, and a restructured State Budget Law that gives more financial independence to local governments.