Vietnam's National Assembly is making key changes to its administrative structure with significant reforms aimed at streamlining governance. On March 14, 2025, the National Assembly Standing Committee concluded its 43rd session, during which it set the stage for extensive legislative revisions and governmental restructuring. Chairman Tran Thanh Man emphasized the importance of adapting to contemporary needs, announcing plans to submit seven draft laws to be reviewed at the 9th session of the National Assembly.
Among the proposed drafts are amendments to existing laws on Special Consumption Tax and Corporate Income Tax, along with new legislations addressing product quality, personal data protection, and overall governmental response structures. The forthcoming legislative session, expected to commence right after the May 1st holiday, is seen as pivotal for addressing the volume of pending legislation and aligning it with Vietnam's socioeconomic development goals.
"We have substantial work to prepare for the 9th session, especially concerning laws due for approval by June 30," Chairman Tran Thanh Man stated, urging government agencies to submit necessary documents punctually to facilitate thorough discussions and decision-making.
Significant discussions were also raised about the proposed abolition of the district administrative level. The Politburo has set forth plans to merge provinces and eliminate district offices. This decision is part of broader strategic objectives to simplify governmental operations and reduce bureaucratic overhead, which aims to create more efficient local governance.
During the March 3 meeting of Quang Ninh Province's Party Committee, officials committed to implementing these structural changes, focusing on objectives outlined by the central government. The aim is to decrease the overall number of administrative units by approximately 50% at the provincial level and up to 70% at the grassroots level, effectively shifting responsibilities directly to local communities.
Dr. To Van Hoa, Deputy Rector of Hanoi Law University, highlighted the potential benefits of the new structure. "Abolishing the district level creates a leaner administrative framework, promoting agile governance more responsive to local needs," Dr. Hoa stated. He emphasized the need for careful planning to maintain effective public service delivery during this transition.
Following the Politburo's directives, the Ministry of Finance has been assessing state properties and assets affected by these administrative changes. Concerns were raised over how to manage assets from dissolved districts, ensuring they are appropriately allocated to the corresponding localities.
Nguyen Tan Thinh, Director of the Department of Asset Management, indicated the necessity for comprehensive strategies to handle government properties. He noted, "We must propose clear asset management solutions during restructuring. For example, if districts are abolished, designated social entities must manage the transferred assets responsibly."
Another layer to this reform initiative includes addressing the 11,034 land properties identified as idle or inefficiently utilized by the end of 2024. Recent directives from the Ministry of Finance reiterated the urgent need to rectify these situations, demanding local authorities develop action plans to utilize or redistribute these assets effectively.
Under the government's restructuring efforts, companies and agencies involved must prepare to adjust their operational frameworks accordingly. The Ministry of Home Affairs has been tasked with crafting guidelines for any modifications related to local administrative entities. Minister Pham Thi Thanh Tra expressed this necessity, "We must revamp the administrative structure to meet modern societal demands, ensuring operations shift seamlessly to new frameworks without sacrificing efficiency or public service quality."
The emphasis on public administration has also led to discussions surrounding legislative adjustments to improve efficiency. The Ministry outlined plans to reform several laws relevant to public service, aiming to refine the responsibilities and authorities of local government officials.
These changes are part of Vietnam's broader initiative to modernize its governance and adapt to changing social dynamics. Political analysts view the abolishment of district-level administration as groundbreaking, potentially fostering greater civic engagement and more efficient local governance. Critics, meanwhile, urge caution, emphasizing the need for clear communication and supportive measures for personnel affected by these reforms.
Local authorities, including Quang Ninh Province, are encouraged to develop public awareness initiatives to educate citizens about the changes. Ensuring community support is seen as imperative to avoid disruptions during and after the transition period.
To meet the April 5 deadline for implementing the outlined plans, all related agencies must cooperate closely, aligning their timelines and strategies to cultivation societal confidence and readiness. Provincial officials have committed to adhering to the federal guidelines, ensuring their approach is democratic and aligned with local realities.
Overall, the developments from the 43rd session of the National Assembly and subsequent government commitments mark significant progress toward creating aligning legislation, reducing administrative layers, and enhancing provincial governance structures across Vietnam. If executed successfully, these reforms could position Vietnam for more agile and effective governance, capable of addressing both contemporary challenges and future growth opportunities.