Vietnam debates amendment to Oil and Gas Law to strengthen state control

On 4 August, Vietnam's National Assembly discussed a draft amendment to the 2022 Oil and Gas Law. Lawmaker Chau Văn Minh emphasized that decentralising authority to Petrovietnam must be paired with clear, transparent execution mechanisms, warning that without synchronized procedures the reforms could stall. He also called for the inclusion of provisions on artificial intelligence and digital data.

Minister of Industry and Trade Lê Mạnh Hùng highlighted that the revised law will keep state oversight of contract transfers, safeguard national security, and expand the regulatory scope to offshore and non‑traditional energy sources. The changes aim to accelerate project approvals, increase domestic oil production, boost state revenue, and support Vietnam’s goal of zero net emissions by 2050. Lawmaker Hoàng Văn Nghĩa stressed the importance of attracting foreign investment while maintaining strategic energy autonomy.