The Vietnamese government is moving forward with significant amendments to the organizational structure of the People's Courts, as outlined in a draft Law proposing changes to Article 60 of the Law on Organization of People's Courts 2024. This initiative aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of judicial processes across the nation.
Under the proposed amendments, the organizational structure of regional People's Courts is set to include specialized courts such as Criminal Courts, Civil Courts, Economic Courts, Administrative Courts, and Courts for Family and Minors. Notably, the establishment of Bankruptcy Courts and Intellectual Property Courts is also on the table, with the National Assembly Standing Committee tasked with defining their territorial jurisdiction based on recommendations from the Chief Justice of the Supreme People's Court.
According to the draft, the Chief Justice will have the authority to decide on the organization of these specialized courts, taking into account both regulatory frameworks and the practical needs of adjudication in each regional People's Court. This flexibility aims to respond to the evolving judicial landscape and the specific demands of different regions.
The supporting apparatus for these courts will also be established and regulated by the Chief Justice, ensuring that every regional People's Court is equipped with a Chief Justice, Deputy Chief Justice, Chief Judge, Deputy Chief Judge, People's Court Judges, Court Examiners, Court Secretaries, and other necessary personnel.
As it stands, Article 60 of the Law on Organization of People's Courts 2024 currently governs the organizational structure of People's Courts in districts, towns, provincial cities, and cities under central authority. This existing framework allows for Criminal Courts, Civil Courts, Courts for Family and Minors, and Administrative Courts to operate within these jurisdictions.
In a related development, the Ministry of Finance is proposing to increase the maximum prices for machinery and equipment used in public procurement. Many ministries, sectors, and localities have indicated that the prices set forth in Decision No. 50/2017/QD-TTg are outdated and do not reflect the current market conditions.
Based on a recent market price survey conducted in February 2025, as well as the average annual Consumer Price Index (CPI) for household equipment from 2019 to 2024, the draft Decision suggests an increase of approximately 10% in the maximum prices for various types of machinery and equipment. For instance, the maximum price for computers is proposed to rise from 15 million VND per unit to 18 million VND, while printers would see an increase from 10 million VND to 13 million VND.
Additionally, the pricing for sets of working tables and chairs is set to increase depending on job titles, with the new range being 6-17 million VND per set, up from the previous 5-15 million VND. The pricing for reception tables and chairs is also expected to rise significantly, with the new maximum set between 11-28 million VND, depending on the office and job title.
The draft Decision also proposes the inclusion of new types of machinery and equipment, specifically document scanners and document shredders, aimed at improving operational efficiency in government offices. Conversely, the use of fax machines is being phased out in favor of more modern, digital solutions.
To facilitate greater autonomy for ministries and localities in managing their budgets and procurement processes, the draft Decision outlines a framework for adjusting machinery and equipment prices. If the price of a particular item exceeds the regulated price by up to 15%, the relevant authorities will have the discretion to approve the purchase. For items priced between 15% and 30% above the maximum, approval will require a higher level of oversight from central and local government officials.
The proposed changes are in line with the ongoing efforts to streamline the organizational structures within the political system, as highlighted in recent conclusions from the Politburo and the Secretariat. The draft Decision aims to clarify the subjects of application, which will include state agencies, Communist Party agencies, the Vietnam Fatherland Front, public non-business units, and project management boards utilizing state capital.
In summary, these proposed amendments to the People's Courts and the adjustments in machinery and equipment pricing reflect the Vietnamese government's commitment to enhancing judicial efficiency and adapting to market realities. As the legislative process continues, stakeholders from various sectors will be closely monitoring the developments, eager to see how these changes will impact the functioning of the judiciary and public procurement in Vietnam.
