Vietnam is taking significant steps to streamline its agricultural and environmental sectors by proposing a new law aimed at reducing bureaucratic hurdles. The National Assembly Standing Committee recently reviewed a draft legislation designed to simplify the current administrative procedures and business regulations impacting these sectors. This proposed law seeks to amend 10 existing laws, which include critical areas such as plant protection, animal husbandry, fisheries, irrigation, water resources, veterinary services, and crop production.
A major highlight of the draft is its ambitious plan to eliminate 38 administrative processes and 40 business conditions. Additionally, the proposal aims to simplify 13 other procedures, which collectively are expected to reduce processing times by a total of 904 days. This streamlining effort is projected to save businesses around VNĐ189.9 billion, equivalent to approximately US$7.3 million, in compliance costs.
As lawmakers deliberate on this legislation, they have underscored the importance of balancing the simplification of procedures with the need for robust regulatory oversight. A significant focus of the bill is on expanding decentralization while maintaining control. Furthermore, the draft encourages the adoption of digital tools such as QR codes and product traceability systems. These technological advancements are intended to enhance inspection processes and ensure the quality of products within the agricultural and environmental sectors.
The proposed legislative reforms highlight Vietnam’s commitment to modernizing its agricultural and environmental frameworks. By reducing red tape and promoting the use of digital solutions, the country aims to foster a more efficient and competitive business environment. The final version of this draft law is anticipated to be completed by July 25, marking a pivotal moment for stakeholders in these key sectors of the Vietnamese economy.