Nationwide crackdown on intellectual property violations from May 7 to 30, 2026
Vietnam will launch a nationwide campaign to combat intellectual property (IP) infringement from May 7 to May 30, following Official Dispatch No. 38/CD-TTg signed by Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Dung on May 5.
Stronger enforcement and stricter penalties
The directive notes that while recent years have seen progress in detecting and handling IP violations, infringements remain complex in several sectors and localities, negatively affecting the business environment and the legitimate rights of individuals and enterprises.
To create a stronger shift in enforcement, the government has ordered ministries, agencies, and local authorities to implement synchronized and decisive measures, ensuring strict compliance with the law under the principle of “no forbidden zones, no exễcptions".
Focus on major cases and online piracy
The Ministry of Public Security is tasked with investigating and prosecuting serious IP infringement cases, particularly those involving copyright, trademarks, and geographical indications. Authorities will also target large-scale piracy websites providing illegal films, music, television programs, and mobile games in both Vietnamese and foreign languages.
Border forces under the Ministry of National Defence will coordinate with relevant agencies to strengthen inspections and prevent cross-border trade in counterfeit goods.
Courts and prosecutors to step up action
Judicial bodies are required to accelerate prosecution and trial processes for IP-related cases, ensuring strict and deterrent penalties. Selected high-profile cases will be prioritized to set examples.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Tourism will conduct inspections on software copyright compliance in businesses, as well as digital content such as films, music, and online games. Authorities aim to increase the number of handled cases by at least 20% compared to May 2025.
Tightened market and customs control
Market surveillance forces under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, along with local governments, will intensify inspections against counterfeit goods and trademark violations, also targeting a minimum 20% increase in enforcement outcomes.
Customs authorities under the Ministry of Finance will enhance checks on imports and exports, proactively suspending clearance for suspected counterfeit goods.
Daily reporting and sustained efforts
All ministries and localities are required to submit daily reports on serious and complex cases to the Ministry of Science and Technology for consolidation and reporting to the Prime Minister.
After May 30, authorities will review the campaign’s outcomes and continue long-term measures to ensure sustained and effective IP enforcement nationwide.
The government also calls for strong coordination across agencies and active participation from the entire political system to ensure tangible results in protecting intellectual property rights.