Vietnam intensifies nationwide IP enforcement campaign against counterfeit goods and infringements

Recent developments in Vietnam indicate a significantly strengthened enforcement environment against counterfeit goods and intellectual property infringements.

On 05 May 2026, the Prime Minister issued Official Dispatch No. 38/CĐ-TTg directing ministries, Customs, Market Surveillance authorities, police, and local governments to launch a nationwide high-intensity campaign against counterfeit goods, smuggling, trade fraud, and IP infringements, including online copyright infringement.

Notably, this development comes shortly after the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) designated Vietnam as a “Priority Foreign Country” in its annual Special 301 Report, reflecting concerns over the country’s IP enforcement effectiveness. In response, Vietnam appears to be adopting a much more aggressive and coordinated enforcement approach to demonstrate its commitment to strengthening IP protection and market supervision.

In practice, we are already observing:

• Increased inspection and enforcement activities;

• Stronger coordination among enforcement authorities;

• More proactive handling of counterfeit and infringing goods cases in both physical and online markets.

From a practical perspective, the current period may represent a particularly favourable window for brand owners to initiate enforcement actions in Vietnam. The current enforcement momentum is likely to enhance the effectiveness of market raids, inspections, Customs monitoring, and anti-counterfeit campaigns.

Accordingly, right holders may wish to consider taking proactive investigation and enforcement measures while enforcement efforts remain at a heightened level.

Source:
https://luatvietnam.vn/so-huu-tri-tue/cong-dien-38-cd-ttg-2026-thuc-hien-giai-phap-ngan-chan-xam-pham-quyen-so-huu-tri-tue-433802-d6.html (Vietnamese)