The 9th session of the 15th National Assembly of Vietnam opened on May 5, 2025, with a heavy agenda that promises to shape the country's legislative and socio-economic landscape. Running until June 30, this session will be conducted in two phases: the first from May 5 to May 29, and the second from June 11 to June 30, totaling 37 working days. This session is particularly significant as it aligns with the resolutions from the 11th Central Committee meeting of the Communist Party of Vietnam, which discussed historic decisions for the new revolutionary period.
According to Mr. Nguyen Huu Thong, Vice Chairman of the Delegation of National Assembly Deputies of Binh Thuan province, the session is expected to be both "heavy" in terms of work and "deep" in terms of responsibility. "The agenda reflects a massive workload with many tasks being carried out simultaneously for the first time," he noted. During this session, the National Assembly will review amendments and supplements to the 2013 Constitution, dedicating two full days to this crucial discussion. Amending the Constitution after a decade requires a strategic vision aimed at updating the nation's highest legal framework, which is vital for reorganizing the state apparatus and implementing significant reforms.
In total, the National Assembly aims to pass 30 laws and 7 resolutions, covering a wide array of sectors from economics and finance to education and labor. Among the notable laws up for discussion are the amendments to the Law on Special Consumption Tax and the Law on Corporate Income Tax. These legislative changes are designed to remove institutional barriers and create a transparent legal framework that will turn policies into developmental drivers.
Additionally, the National Assembly will provide opinions on six other draft laws, including those concerning personal data protection, innovation, and emergency situations. This forward-thinking approach is intended to lay the groundwork for future reforms, particularly in digital transformation and data security management.
During this session, the National Assembly will also address significant socio-economic issues, including an assessment of the 2024 socio-economic development plan and adjustments to critical economic indicators. For instance, there are discussions about reducing VAT for the last six months of 2025 to support both businesses and citizens. Furthermore, the assembly will review the 2023 budget settlement and consider reports on thrift, anti-waste measures, and gender equality.
One of the key items on the agenda is the establishment of the National Election Council, which is essential for ensuring a well-organized and efficient electoral process for the upcoming general elections. The National Assembly plans to allocate 1.5 days for a questioning and answering session, demonstrating its commitment to transparency and accountability.
Prior to the session, the Delegation of National Assembly Deputies of Binh Thuan province organized meetings across 20 communes, wards, and towns, engaging over 1,000 voters. These interactions revealed a strong consensus among the electorate regarding the Central Government's strategic decisions, particularly the restructuring of administrative units and the streamlining of the organizational framework. However, voters also expressed concerns about the potential loss of historical names and local identities during these changes.
In the realm of labor and social policy, voters have suggested mechanisms to support commune-level officials, part-time staff, and those in specialized associations affected by streamlining measures. They have also called for the Government and the Ministry of Health to expedite payments for Covid-19 prevention supplies. Transportation needs were highlighted as well, with requests for investment in breakwaters and storm shelters in Mui Ne.
Economic concerns were also prevalent among voters, particularly regarding the disparity between domestic and international gold prices. Many have urged the assembly to implement appropriate stabilization measures. In terms of organizational structure and security of digital life, constituents have requested a new model that clearly delineates responsibilities to avoid bureaucratic inefficiencies.
Moreover, voters have emphasized the need for personal data protection and strict penalties for high-tech crimes, along with a call for more robust regulations against misleading advertising, especially through social media. Food safety and the management of false advertising remain pressing issues that voters want addressed.
Mr. Nguyen Huu Thong expressed his hopes for this historic session, stating, "I expect the National Assembly not only to meet legislative goals but also to instill a sense of trust among the public. Trust that National Assembly representatives are truly advocates for the rights and interests of the people." He believes that with a serious and responsible working spirit, the 15th National Assembly will continue to demonstrate its role as the highest authority for the people, showcasing its capability in addressing the country's major challenges.
As the session progresses, it will be a test of the National Assembly's resolve, intellect, and sense of responsibility. With thorough preparation evident in the surveys, expert consultations, and meticulous scrutiny of draft laws and resolutions, there is optimism that the assembly will succeed in making landmark decisions that pave the way for a new phase of national development.
