Vietnam issues new technical standards for EV charging stations

Vietnam's Ministry of Industry and Trade has issued Circular 61, establishing national technical standards for electric vehicle (EV) charging pillars and stations. The regulation, which includes QCVN 32:2026/BCT, aims to create a technical framework focused on safety, compatibility, transparency, and grid protection.

Effective July 1, 2027, public charging stations must be designed to be technically ready for shared use among compatible electric vehicles. This requires standardized connectors, charging modes, and technical configurations. While the standards mandate technical compatibility to ensure interoperability, they do not force businesses to open their private charging networks to competitors. The decision to share or use stations remains subject to commercial agreements between parties.

The standards apply to manufacturers, importers, distributors, and operators of charging equipment. Requirements cover electrical safety, fire prevention, electromagnetic compatibility, and data management. Additionally, charging stations must comply with land-use purposes and ensure that placement does not obstruct traffic or emergency exits.