Vietnam has completed the legal foundation for a regulatory sandbox mechanism in science, technology, and innovation, according to Deputy Minister of Science and Technology Bui Hoang Phuong.
Speaking at the on-going Vietnam–Asia DX Summit 2026 in Hanoi on May 28, organized by the Vietnam Software and IT Services Association, the deputy minister said the newly adopted Law on Science, Technology and Innovation has established the core legal framework for sandbox mechanisms in Vietnam.
He added that implementing decrees under the Digital Technology Industry Law now provide relatively detailed guidance on procedures, documentation, and implementation processes for sandbox programs.
The announcement comes amid growing calls from businesses and technology experts for more flexible regulatory mechanisms to support innovation and emerging technologies.
According to Mr. Bui Hoang Phuong, the Ministry of Science and Technology recently supported northern Dien Bien province in launching a pilot sandbox initiative involving unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs).
During the pilot process, ministry officials worked closely with local authorities and relevant ministries, particularly the Ministry of National Defense, to address regulatory obstacles. The defense ministry has since approved UAV operations in selected areas of Dien Bien and granted exemptions from certain technical standards and legal requirements.
Officials said the sandbox mechanism is expected to help accelerate innovation while allowing authorities to test and refine policies for emerging technologies in a controlled environment.
