The short answer
Vietnam passed its amended Intellectual Property Law on 10 December 2025. It takes effect on 1 April 2026. Trademark opposition shortens from five months to three, procedures in trademarks, designs and patents get shorter deadlines, and digital platforms get a duty to protect IP rights online.
Trademark changes
- Opposition period drops from five months to three.
- Marks containing "Vietnam" or other national elements face tighter limits.
- Shorter statutory timelines across trademark, design and patent procedures.
Platforms, designs and assets
- Article 198b.5a: online platform operators must take measures to protect IP rights in cyberspace.
- Article 89a removes the first-filing-in-Vietnam requirement for certain digital platforms distributing online content.
- Digital copies of a registered design count as use of the design.
- IP is recognised as an asset that can be valued, traded and used as collateral.
Related rules: Decree 341/2025/ND-CP on copyright sanctions took effect on 15 February 2026, and Decree 186/2026/ND-CP on IP enforcement was reported to take effect on 15 July 2026. Sources differ in detail, so check the official text.
What brand owners should do
- Update your watch service: opposition deadlines are shorter.
- Review Vietnamese marks that include national terms.
- Ask local counsel how the platform duty helps takedowns on marketplaces.
Questions and answers
When did the Vietnam IP Law amendments take effect?
On 1 April 2026, after passage on 10 December 2025.
What is the new trademark opposition period?
Three months instead of five.
Does the law affect online marketplaces?
Yes. Platform operators now have a duty to protect IP rights online (Article 198b.5a).
Protecting your brand in Vietnam?
SUPREMEiP® files and watches trademarks in Vietnam through local counsel.
