Vietnam enacts stricter internet penalties and AI labeling rules effective July 1

The Vietnamese government issued two new decrees that take effect on 1 July 2026. Decree 174/2026/ND‑CP expands administrative fines for violations in the postal, telecommunications, information technology and cyberspace sectors, targeting false or harmful content on social media. Penalties range from 20‑30 million VND for spreading misinformation to 30‑50 million VND for more serious offenses such as defamation, hate speech, or disclosing state secrets, and may include account suspensions or closures.

Decree 237/2026/ND‑CP details the obligations of news organisations when using artificial‑intelligence tools. Media outlets must verify AI‑generated material, clearly label such content, and are prohibited from creating or disseminating AI‑produced false information. The decree also sets licensing requirements for press organisations and encourages responsible AI research and application in journalism.

Both decrees aim to curb misinformation, protect public order and improve the credibility of online information in Vietnam.