Vietnam and UK team up to protect consumers

The Ministry of Industry and Trade’s National Competition Commission, and the British Embassy in Vietnam signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on March 25 focused on enhancing consumer protection collaboration.

Accordingly, the United Kingdom will partner with Vietnam to conduct research aimed at identifying the most effective communication methods for disseminating information related to product recalls, defective goods, and product safety.

The research will also outline strategies for consumer protection enforcement agencies to engage effectively with manufacturers, businesses, consumers, and other relevant organizations. These efforts seek to ensure  successful implementation of Vietnam's Law on Protection of Consumer Rights.

The UK's Office for Product Safety and Standards will provide training and capacity-building initiatives, sharing best practices and valuable lessons through courses, survey programs, and practical experience exchanges. These activities aim to support Vietnam in developing robust consumer protection measures and ensuring transparency in both traditional markets and e-commerce platforms.

Speaking at the signing ceremony, Deputy Minister of Industry and Trade Phan Thi Thang highlighted the significance of the MoU, describing it as a milestone in the bilateral cooperation between Vietnam and the UK.

She also underscored Vietnam's continuous efforts to enhance its legal framework, improve enforcement capabilities, and expand international collaboration to foster a safe, transparent, and sustainable consumer environment.

This partnership is part of the UK-ASEAN Economic Integration Program (EIP), which aims to promote economic reform and sustainable development across the region. The MOU will remain in effect until March 2028.