Vietnam expands social security to cover gig‑economy workers

Vietnam is considering extending compulsory social insurance (BHXH) to platform‑based workers such as ride‑hailing drivers, delivery couriers and online sellers. Advocates argue that the rapidly growing digital‑platform workforce, which now generates significant income, lacks formal retirement, sickness, maternity and occupational‑injury coverage, leaving them vulnerable to income loss after accidents or business downturns. Critics warn that mandatory contributions could impose a financial burden on low‑earning participants.

Proposals call for a flexible contribution system based on actual earnings, shared responsibility from the technology platforms that profit from these workers, and targeted state support for low‑income groups during the transition. The aim is to create an equitable, adaptable safety net rather than merely increasing enrolment numbers.

The initiative reflects broader debates on how to adapt Vietnam’s social‑protection framework to the digital economy while maintaining fiscal sustainability and encouraging formalisation of the gig sector.