The National Assembly Standing Committee of Vietnam has taken a significant step towards reforming the administrative landscape in the agriculture and environment sectors by reviewing a draft law. This proposed legislation aims to streamline processes by addressing ten existing laws, including those governing fields such as plant protection, animal husbandry, fisheries, irrigation, water resources, veterinary services, and crop production.
In an effort to enhance efficiency, the draft law suggests the elimination of 38 administrative procedures and 40 business conditions, alongside the simplification of 13 additional procedures. These proposed changes are projected to cut down processing times by a substantial 904 days, translating to a savings of approximately VNĐ189.9 billion (US$7.3 million) in compliance costs for businesses operating within these sectors.
While the focus is on simplification, lawmakers have underscored the importance of maintaining strong regulatory oversight. This balance is to be achieved by expanding decentralization and encouraging the use of digital tools. Among the technological advancements promoted in the bill are QR codes and product traceability systems, which are expected to enhance inspection processes and ensure product quality across the board.
The legislative effort underscores Vietnam’s commitment to modernizing its regulatory framework while supporting business operations. The final draft of this pivotal legislation is anticipated to be completed by July 25, marking a crucial development in Vietnam’s push to foster a more efficient and business-friendly environment.