How to Set up Trading Company in Vietnam?

 Investment in setting up trading company in Vietnam is considered as investment in conditional investment areas.

How to Set up Trading Company in Vietnam under Vietnam Laws?

Once an underdeveloped country, in the last two decades Vietnam has shown an incredible growth in the world economic scene, especially in the criteria of investment attraction. For a foreign company that is interested in expanding the business in a new country or region, Vietnam is a promising destination.

In order to start a company or specifically a trading company in Vietnam, foreign investor should comprehensively understand the formality and function of the legal entity to be formed according to Vietnam Law. The consultancy and guidance of skilled and qualified lawyers in Vietnam law firms throughout the process shall mostly be needed.

Can Foreigners Set up Trading Company in Vietnam?

The Legal Basis for a Foreign Company to Set up Trading Company in Vietnam

The legal basis for a foreign company to set up a company in Vietnam is stated in the Enterprise Law of Vietnam:

Can Foreigners Set up Trading Company in Vietnam?

Foreign organizations and individuals will be entitled to establish and manage enterprises in Vietnam in accordance with this law, with some exceptions.  

Foreign investors may invest in the form of 100% foreign- owned capital to establish limited liability companies, joint-stock companies, partnerships or private enterprises under the provisions of the Enterprise Law and relevant laws.

What Type of Documents to Submit to Set up Trading Company in Vietnam?

The foreign investor shall mostly needs to fulfill the investment registration procedures at provincial-level state agencies in charge of investment in order to be granted the investment certificates, in accordance with Vietnam law in investment.

The dossier required for the investment registration shall comprise of an examination dossier, papers showing the capability to satisfy the conditions which the project is required by law to satisfy, for investment projects in conditional investment domains i.e. specific goods to be traded at HS code level, experience in trading area, how the trading procedures would be carried out, potential customers in Vietnam.

Investment Capital Required to Set up Trading Company in Vietnam

In particular, for investment capital, it should be noted that, trading company needs to commit larger investment in terms of capital, since its function is to identify competitive suppliers, negotiate and purchase their products and sell them through a distribution network in Vietnam.

In the meantime, the investor needs to have experience in trading to run the business smoothly and efficiently. The investor should explain why the company would contribute to the development in Vietnam when applying for investment license at Department of Planning and Investment, and Ministry of Trade and Commerce.

How Vietnam Lawyers Could Help Foreign Investors to Set up Trading Company in Vietnam?

Vietnamese lawyers play a crucial role in assisting foreign investors to set up trading company in Vietnam throughout the establishment process, ensuring compliance with local laws and regulations.

1. Understanding Local Regulations

Vietnamese lawyers bring valuable expertise in navigating the intricacies of local regulations. They guide foreign investors through the legal requirements to set up trading company in Vietnam, cover aspects such as business licensing, permits, and compliance with industry-specific regulations. This nuanced understanding helps streamline the process and minimizes the risk of regulatory hurdles.

2. Legal Advice and Due Diligence

Before the investors set up trading company in Vietnam, the foreign investors must conduct thorough due diligence. Vietnamese lawyers provide essential legal advice, offering insights into the legal framework, potential risks, and compliance obligations. They assess the feasibility of the investment, helping investors make informed decisions about market entry strategies.

3. Documentation Assistance

To set up trading company in Vietnam involves a significant amount of documentation. Vietnamese lawyers assist foreign investors in preparing and submitting the required paperwork, ensuring accuracy and compliance with local standards. This includes drafting articles of association, obtaining necessary licenses, and addressing any legal formalities related to the establishment process.

4. Communication with Authorities

To set up trading company in Vietnam often requires interaction with various government authorities. Vietnamese lawyers act as intermediaries, facilitating communication between foreign investors and relevant regulatory bodies. This helps in expediting the approval process and ensures that all legal requirements are met in a timely manner.

5. Navigating Challenges

Foreign investors may encounter unforeseen challenges during the establishment process. Vietnamese lawyers are equipped to address these challenges, providing legal solutions and mitigating potential risks. Whether it’s overcoming regulatory hurdles or resolving legal disputes, their expertise contributes to a smoother and more secure entry into the Vietnamese market.

6. Compliance Management

Maintaining compliance with Vietnamese laws is essential for the long-term success of a trading company. Lawyers play an ongoing role in assisting foreign investors with compliance management, keeping them informed about changes in regulations and ensuring that the company operates within the legal framework.

Vietnamese lawyers play a pivotal role in assisting foreign investors in establishing trading companies in Vietnam. Their expertise in local regulations, legal advice, documentation assistance, and communication with authorities are invaluable assets for navigating the complexities of the Vietnamese business landscape. With the support of competent legal professionals, foreign investors can confidently navigate the establishment process, fostering successful and compliant entry into the dynamic Vietnamese market.

Source ANT Lawyers: How to Set up Trading Company in Vietnam?

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How Foreign Entity Could Set up Representative Office in Vietnam?

Set up Representative Office in Vietnam under Commercial Law

To set up representative office in Vietnam is a strategic move for foreign businesses aiming to explore the market and engage in specific commercial activities permitted by Vietnamese law.  

A foreign business entity or a foreign trader is allowed to set up representative office in Vietnam according to the Commercial Law.

How to Set up Representative Office in Vietnam

Representative office of a foreign business entity in Vietnam (referred as “representative office”) means a subsidiary unit of the foreign business entity, established in accordance with the law of Vietnam in order to survey markets and to undertake a number of commercial enhancement activities permitted by the law of Vietnam. Representative office will need to apply and obtain the establishment license; and have a seal bearing the name of the representative office.

Differences between a Representative Office and a company in Vietnam

To set up representative office is less complicated than to set up company in Vietnam. The Vietnam Department of Trade will be approving the establishment of representative office in Vietnam while Vietnam Ministry of Planning and Investment will be the State agency that coordinate the setting up a company in Vietnam.  

The time duration to set up Representative Office in Vietnam is shorter than to establish a company. There are fewer conditions to meet than conditions in setting up company in Vietnam.  

The main difference between a representative office and a company in Vietnam is that the representative office could not directly conduct profit making activities.

Rights of the Representative Office

-To operate strictly in accordance with the purposes, scope and duration stated in the license for establishment of such representative office;

-To rent offices and to lease or purchase the equipment and facilities necessary for the operation of the representative office;

-To recruit Vietnamese and foreign employees to work for the representative office in accordance with the law of Vietnam;

-To open accounts in foreign currency and in Vietnamese Dong sourced from foreign currency at banks which are licensed to operate in Vietnam, and to use such accounts solely for the operation of the representative office.

Obligation of the Representative Office

-Not to directly conduct profit making activities in Vietnam;
Not to enter into commercial contracts of the foreign business entity or to amend or supplement such contracts already signed except where the head of the representative office has a valid power of attorney from the foreign business entity;

-To pay taxes, fees and charges and to discharge other financial obligations in accordance with the law of Vietnam;

-To report on the operation of the representative office in accordance with the law of Vietnam

Conditions to set up Representative Office in Vietnam

A foreign company which has effectiveness business activities will be allowed to open the representative office in Vietnam if this company has real demand to open the market in Vietnam and meet conditions as below:

-Being a business entity or trader recognized by the law of the country or the territory (hereinafter referred to collectively as the country) where it has been lawfully established or made its business registration;

-Having been operating for at least one year after its lawful establishment or business registration in its country.

The issuing period will be within 20 working-days after the date of submitting the full valid documents as requested.

How Vietnam Lawyers Could Assist Foreign Company to Set up Representative Office in Vietnam

Here is how the lawyers in Vietnam could help foreign investors to set up representative office in Vietnam.

1. Legal Guidance and Compliance

Vietnamese lawyers play a pivotal role in providing legal guidance to foreign companies to set up representative office in Vietnam. They navigate the legal intricacies, ensuring adherence to the Commercial Law and other relevant regulations. Lawyers help foreign entities understand the permissible activities for a representative office, steering them away from potential legal pitfalls.

2. Application and Licensing Process

To set up representative office in Vietnam requires obtaining an establishment license. Vietnamese lawyers assist foreign companies throughout the application process, ensuring all required documents are accurately prepared and submitted to the Vietnam Department of Trade. Their expertise expedites the approval process, facilitating a quicker setup compared to establishing a company.

3. Coordination with Government Agencies

While the Vietnam Department of Trade oversees the approval of representative offices, Vietnamese lawyers facilitate communication between foreign companies and the relevant authorities. This coordination ensures a smooth process, with lawyers acting as intermediaries to address any queries or requirements from the government during the setup phase.

4. Seal and Licensing Requirements to Set up Representative Office in Vietnam

A representative office is required to have a seal bearing its name. Vietnamese lawyers guide foreign entities on the proper procedures for obtaining and using this seal, ensuring compliance with local regulations. They also assist in securing the necessary licenses, providing comprehensive support to foreign companies entering the Vietnamese market.

5. Comparative Simplicity to Establishing a Company

Vietnamese lawyers highlight the relative simplicity to set up representative office in Vietnam compared to establishing a company in Vietnam. By clarifying the distinctions between the approval processes handled by the Vietnam Department of Trade for representative offices and the Vietnam Ministry of Planning and Investment for companies, lawyers help foreign investors make informed decisions based on their business objectives.

6. Time Efficiency

One of the key advantages of establishing a representative office is the shorter duration compared to setting up a company. Vietnamese lawyers guide foreign entities through a streamlined process, ensuring that the necessary steps are efficiently completed. This time efficiency is crucial for businesses aiming to establish a swift presence in the Vietnamese market.

7. Profit Limitations and Compliance

Vietnamese lawyers educate foreign companies on the primary distinction between representative offices and companies, Representative Offices cannot directly engage in profit-making activities. Lawyers guide foreign entities in understanding the scope of permissible activities, ensuring strict compliance with Vietnamese regulations.

Vietnamese lawyers play a vital role in assisting foreign companies set up  representative office in Vietnam. Their legal expertise, guidance through the application process, coordination with government agencies, and emphasis on compliance contribute to a seamless and efficient setup. With the support of competent legal professionals, foreign entities can strategically position themselves in the Vietnamese market through representative offices, leveraging the advantages of a simplified process and legal clarity.

Source ANT Lawyers: How Foreign Entity Could Set up Representative Office in Vietnam?

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The Role of Commercial Litigation Lawyers in Vietnam: Assisting International Clients in Business Transactions

 Understand Commercial Litigation in Vietnam

Commercial litigation in Vietnam refers to the legal process of resolving disputes arising from commercial transactions between businesses or involving commercial entities. It involves taking legal action, to settle conflicts and seek remedies through the courts or alternative dispute resolution mechanisms. Commercial litigation lawyers in Vietnam could play a vital role to represent client in litigation.

Commercial litigation covers a broad range of issues that can arise in the business context, such as contract disputes, breach of contract claims, payment disputes, disputes over business transactions, intellectual property disputes, shareholder disputes, and issues related to corporate governance.

When parties involved in commercial transactions are unable to resolve their disputes through negotiation or other means, they may turn to commercial litigation to seek a legal resolution. The litigation process typically involves filing a lawsuit, presenting arguments and evidence, and allowing the court to make a judgment based on the applicable laws and evidence presented.

In Vietnam, commercial litigation is governed by the Vietnamese Civil Procedure Code and other relevant laws and regulations. The litigation process follows established procedures and timelines, with the courts playing a crucial role in resolving commercial disputes and administering justice.

It is worth noting that commercial litigation can be time-consuming, costly, and potentially disruptive to business operations. As a result, alternative dispute resolution methods such as negotiation, mediation, and arbitration are often encouraged as alternatives to litigation in order to reach a more efficient and amicable resolution.

Why Engaging the Services of Commercial Litigation Lawyers is Crucial

Vietnam’s rapidly growing economy and increasing international trade make it an attractive destination for businesses from around the world. However, conducting business in a foreign jurisdiction comes with its share of challenges and legal complexities. Commercial litigation lawyers in Vietnam play a vital role in assisting international clients, ensuring their rights are protected, and providing valuable legal guidance throughout the business transaction process.

Understanding the Legal Landscape

Vietnam’s legal system, influenced by both civil law and socialist principles, can be complex and challenging to navigate for international businesses. Commercial litigation lawyers in Vietnam possess an in-depth understanding of the legal landscape, including commercial laws, regulations, and judicial procedures. They stay updated with the latest legal developments, ensuring that international clients receive accurate and current legal advice.

Legal Advice and Risk Assessment

Commercial litigation lawyers in Vietnam provide expert legal advice to international clients, guiding them through the intricacies of Vietnamese business laws. They assess the legal risks associated with various business transactions, helping clients make informed decisions and develop effective risk management strategies. By conducting thorough due diligence and analysis, these lawyers identify potential legal pitfalls and provide strategies to mitigate risks, ensuring that international clients are well-prepared to navigate the Vietnamese business environment.

Contract Drafting and Negotiation

Drafting and negotiating contracts is a critical aspect of any business transaction. Commercial litigation lawyers assist international clients in Vietnam by drafting, reviewing, and negotiating contracts tailored to their specific needs. These lawyers ensure that contracts comply with Vietnamese laws and regulations, protect their clients’ rights and interests, and minimize the potential for future disputes. By leveraging their expertise, commercial litigation lawyers help international clients achieve fair and favorable contractual terms, fostering successful business relationships.

Dispute Resolution and Litigation

In the event of disputes or commercial litigation, having skilled commercial litigation lawyers by their side is invaluable for international clients in Vietnam. These lawyers are adept at handling dispute resolution processes, including negotiation, mediation, arbitration, and litigation. They have a deep understanding of Vietnamese court procedures, case precedents, and legal strategies to protect their clients’ interests. Commercial litigation lawyers provide robust representation, advocate for their clients’ rights, and strive for fair resolutions. Their expertise in Vietnamese commercial law ensures that international clients are well-equipped to navigate the complexities of dispute resolution in Vietnam’s legal system.

Cross-Border Transactions and International Law

International clients involved in cross-border transactions face unique challenges that require expertise in international law. Commercial litigation lawyers in Vietnam possess knowledge of international legal frameworks, trade agreements, and customs regulations. They assist international clients in navigating the complexities of cross-border transactions, ensuring compliance with applicable international laws and regulations. These lawyers offer guidance on international trade practices, dispute resolution mechanisms, intellectual property rights, and other legal considerations specific to international business transactions.

How Commercial Litigation Lawyers in Vietnam Could Help?

Commercial litigation lawyers in Vietnam play a crucial role in supporting international clients doing business in Vietnam. Their comprehensive knowledge of Vietnam commercial laws, legal procedures, and international legal frameworks ensures that international clients receive expert guidance and protection.

From providing legal advice and risk assessment to contract drafting and negotiation, dispute resolution, and expertise in cross-border transactions, commercial litigation lawyers in Vietnam facilitate smooth and successful business transactions. Engaging the services of these specialized legal professionals is essential for international clients seeking to navigate the Vietnam business landscape with confidence and compliance while doing business in Vietnam.

Source ANT Lawyers: The Role of Commercial Litigation Lawyers in Vietnam: Assisting International Clients in Business Transactions

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What 10 Questions to Ask Before Setting up Company in Vietnam?

Foreigners are encouraged to make investment in Vietnam through direct investment by setting up company in Vietnam.

Vietnam presents a compelling opportunity for investors looking to establish a company and tap into its burgeoning market. With a dynamic economy, strategic geographical location, and a favorable business climate, Vietnam offers a wealth of advantages that make it an attractive investment destination.

As investors contemplate their next venture, the following questions provide essential insights into the process of setting up a company in Vietnam, ensuring a smooth and successful establishment within the country’s vibrant business landscape.

Before Setting Up Company in Vietnam, Ask Yourself the Following 10 Questions:

1. Which business should I invest in Vietnam?

2. What should I name the business in Vietnam?

3. Where should I register the address of the business in Vietnam?

4. What is the legal structure of the company?

5. How much capital is required for setting up a company in Vietnam?

6. Whom will be legal representative and work permit in Vietnam?

7. How long does it take to set-up a company in Vietnam?

8. Whom will be granting the investment license in Vietnam?

9. What are the tax liability in Vietnam?

10. What are mandatory reports submissions requirement in Vietnam?

Which Business Should I Invest in Vietnam?

There are non-conditional investment areas and conditional investment areas.

Establishing company in the non-conditional investment areas are more simple than in conditional investment areas. Investment in IT services, manufacturing, management consulting, business promotion are a few samples of non-conditional investment areas. Example of conditional investment areas are real estate, trading, travel agencies, freight forwarding… which are more complicated with investment conditions.

Investment conditions might also be changed over the time depending on the WTO commitments which Vietnam enters.

What Should I Name the Business in Vietnam?

The company in Vietnam has to have Vietnamese name, and English name. The company could also have abbreviated name. The name of the company in Vietnam indicates the structure of the company, the business lines, and the name that differentiate against other businesses. For instance, the company could be named Alpha consulting limited liability company.

Where Should I Register The Address of the Business In Vietnam?

Not every address could be used to register a company. The address has to be an address of a house with leasing agreement or office building which owner has license to operate as office building.

What is the Legal Structure of the Company?

Depending on the number of investor contributing capital, company could be set-up as one member limited liability company or two ore more member limited liability company or joint stocks company.

How Much Capital is Required for Setting Up Company in Vietnam?

The investment amount depends on the business plan and is subject to the approval of the provincial Department of Planning and Investment evaluating application dossier. In some business areas like real estate, banking and finance, minimum capital is required.

In general for non-conditional investment area, the law does not specify the minimum capital to establish a company in Vietnam however the State agencies that evaluate investment plan could reject the investment project which are not feasible. Bank statement in foreign banks could be used to prove sufficient fund of investment capital.

Whom Will Be Legal Representative and Work Permit in Vietnam?

The investor will need to appoint the legal representative in Vietnam to oversee the business performance and take legal responsibility in Vietnam.

If the legal representative is an expatriate, whom is a capital contributing member or owner of a limited liability company or a member of the Board of Management of a shareholding company which is registered to operate in Vietnam, he or she will be exempted from work permit in Vietnam. Otherwise, he or she will need to have a work permit to work in Vietnam legally. The work permit holder would then apply for temporary residence card to live in Vietnam as long as the work permit allows.

How Long Does It Take to Set-Up A Company in Vietnam?

It depends on what type, scale, and whether or not conditions are required.

For a simple minimum capital without conditions to set-up, it would take 30 working days.

For setting up company in Vietnam in conditional investment areas i.e.  trading company, time would be lengthen due to the involvement of a number of State agencies approving the investment project and it would take 60 working days.

For setting up company in Vietnam in other investments in areas requiring conditions to meet, time might be taken depending on the type of conditions and the government agencies evaluating the conditions of investment.

Whom Will Be Granting the Investment License in Vietnam?

For most of the investment projects, the provincial state agencies with the approval of the Department of Planning and Investment (DPI) will be granting the Investment Certificate in Vietnam. However, depending on the type, scale, and whether or not conditions are required, other Vietnam State agencies might be involved.

For the case of trading company, ministry of trade and commerce, ministry of finance, provincial people’s committee will be reviewing the investment application dossier as well.

What are The Tax Liability in Vietnam?

Major taxes in Vietnam are corporate income tax, import and export tax, value added tax, and personal income tax in Vietnam.

In some special areas, there are other taxes. The corporate income tax is currently at 22% and will reduce to 20% beginning 2016.

Export is mostly encouraged as such the export tax is 0 however there are special cases when export tax is larger than 0.

Import tax varies according to tariff.

Value added tax is mostly at 10% however in some cases, VAT could be 5% or 0%.

Personal Income tax varies according to income level and is applicable from VND 9,000,000 above.

What are Mandatory Reports Submissions Requirement in Vietnam?

Companies are required to keep accounting books, prepare and submit tax reports on monthly, quarterly and annually.

Foreign companies are also required to have financial audit taken before the financial year end.

The financial year in Vietnam is from January to December and the deadline to submit financial report is March 30th for the previous year. Other reports are required to be submitted at other State agencies.

How a Law Firm in Vietnam Could Help Setting Up Company in Vietnam?

As Vietnam continues to experience rapid economic growth and embraces market-oriented reforms, it emerges as a prime location for foreign investors setting up company in Vietnam. With a diverse range of investment areas, straightforward registration processes, and a supportive legal framework, Vietnam provides ample opportunities for success.

By carefully considering the crucial factors outlined in this essay, such as business selection, legal requirements, capital investment, and taxation, investors can navigate the intricacies of setting up company in Vietnam with confidence. Moreover, the country’s commitment to attracting foreign investment, coupled with its strategic regional position and favorable trade agreements, positions Vietnam as a gateway to the flourishing markets of Southeast Asia.

Investing in Vietnam can unlock immense potential, enabling investors to thrive in a dynamic and promising business environment.

Source ANT Lawyers: What 10 Questions to Ask Before Setting up Company in Vietnam?

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How Easy to Start a Business in Vietnam as a Foreigner in 5 Steps?

Why to Start a Business in Vietnam?

In recent years, Vietnam has become an attractive destination for foreign investment thanks to its advantages of security, political stability, and favorable geographical position to trade with the world. This is both the connection center of the region and the gateway to penetrate the economies in the western region of the Indochina Peninsula. In addition, the Vietnam government has increasingly been offering more preferential policies to create favorable conditions for foreign investors to start a business in Vietnam.

How to Start a Business in Vietnam?

5 Questions to Ask When Starting a Business in Vietnam as A Foreigner:

1.What is your business structure in Vietnam?
2.What business do you do in Vietnam?
3.Where do you locate the business in Vietnam?
4.What do you name your business?
5.What certificates to apply for your business?

How to Start a Business in Vietnam as a Foreigner in 5 Steps

What is Your Business Structure in Vietnam?

To start a business in Vietnam, investors first need to choose for themselves an appropriate type of business based on the number of capital contributors, the amount of capital contributed, and the business’s purse.

According to the provisions of Vietnam law, foreign individuals and organizations can start a business in Vietnam to establish a limited liability company or a joint stock company or a partnership or a private enterprise.

What Business Do You Do in Vietnam? 

The next issue that needs to be considered is the business line.

In order for the company to be able to operate, the company must register the appropriate business lines, related to business activities.

1. Non-conditional businesses

If the selected line of business does not require conditions, the enterprise can go into operation after the establishment of the company. This is considered non-conditional business area which most of company would do.

2. Conditional businesses

However, if the investor chooses a conditional business line to start a business in Vietnam, the enterprise must meet the necessary requirements, apply for a business license as prescribed, and then go into operation. This is considered conditional investment area where there are some restrictions being required license, minimum charter capital, foreign ownership ratio…

Where Do You Locate the Business in Vietnam?

Investors also need to choose a location for their business, which is legally allowed to conduct business activities. The company address must be located in the territory of Vietnam, and comply with requirement corresponding to purpose of business i.e. company address can not be in an apartment building or a dormitory for living purposes only; factory location has to be at proper zone for industrial purpose…

What Do You Name Your Business?

In order to serve the management of the State and facilitate business activities, newly established businesses need to have their own name and this proper name must be unique, not be the same or similar to previously registered businesses.

Enterprises are not allowed to use the names of functional agencies, state management agencies to name the company. The name of the business must include the type of company and proper name.

To avoid duplication with other companies, businesses can use abbreviations or English names, but must ensure that the company name will not cause confusion, without adding prefixes, suffixes or cultural symbols in the name of the business.

What Certificates to Apply for Your Business?

1. Investment registration certificate in Vietnam

The investors need to apply for an Investment Registration Certificate at a competent authority in Vietnam. This is a mandatory procedure for all projects that want to establish a new legal entity in Vietnam.

The processing time for an investment certificate application is around 30 days depending on the specific project.

2. Enterprise registration certificate in Vietnam

After being granted an Investment Registration Certificate, foreign individuals and organizations need to prepare an application for an Enterprise Registration Certificate at the Department of Planning and Investment which would take around 7 days. Completing this procedure, the enterprise has the legal status according to the provisions of the Law on Enterprises of Vietnam to start a business in Vietnam.

From day one since you start a business in Vietnam commencing its operation, the company could by itself or hire professional to assist with monthly compliance service i.e., submit foreign labour reports, submit investment report, submit tax report, submit health and insurance reports to authorities to avoid encountering penalties.

FAQ: Start a Business in Vietnam

Q1: What does it mean to start a business in Vietnam?

A: To start a business in Vietnam means legally launching your enterprise, from choosing the right business structure and fulfilling legal requirements to obtaining necessary approvals, registering your business, and setting up for operations in Vietnam.

Q2: Who can start a business in Vietnam?

A: Both foreign investors and Vietnamese nationals can start a business in Vietnam. Each must select the appropriate structure, like an LLC, joint-stock company and prepare the required documentation accordingly.

Q3: What initial step should investors take when they start a business in Vietnam?

A: First, choose a suitable business type based on capital contributors: one-member or multi-member LLC, or other forms under Vietnamese corporate law.

Q4: What are the essential steps to start a business in Vietnam?

A: Key steps include:

1. Selecting the appropriate business structure and name.
2. Gathering necessary documents: charter, registration, financial statements, etc.
3. Submitting your business registration to the Department of Planning and Investment.
4. Obtaining approval and completing registration.

Q5: What documents are required when foreign investors start a business in Vietnam?

A: You’ll typically need:

• Business registration certificate, company charter, financial statements of the foreign entity.
• Translations and notarizations as needed.
• Office lease agreement and other compliance documentation depending on the sector.

Q6: Are there tips for helping investors start a business in Vietnam more smoothly?

A: Yes, know that opening a business in Vietnam comes with both opportunities and local nuances. Learn market dynamics, legal frameworks, and administrative expectations early.

Q7: What corporate forms are commonly used when people start a business in Vietnam?

A: Foreign or local entrepreneurs often choose:

• Limited Liability Companies (one-member or multi-member LLC)

Source ANT Lawyers: How Easy to Start a Business in Vietnam as a Foreigner in 5 Steps?

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Vietnam Court System Reform in 2025: Laying the Foundation for International Disputes?

On July 1, 2025, Vietnam took a decisive step toward reshaping not just its domestic judiciary, but potentially its role in global dispute resolution. The Vietnam court system reform introduced legal mechanisms that allow for the formation of international style specialized courts.

While less visible than the structural overhaul of district and high courts, this new power may be the most transformative part of the reform for foreign legal professionals.

This snapshot explores what changed, why it matters, and how Vietnam may be laying the groundwork for a future international commercial court.

Snapshot of Key Changes in Vietnam Court System Reform in 2025

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Vietnam Arbitration Law Reform: 7 Reasons Foreign Counsels Cannot Ignore

 Change is real. Business needs certainty. Counsel needs clarity.

With changes in competitiveness in international dispute resolution, Vietnam arbitration law reform is entering a decisive moment. Investors are negotiating large contracts. Legal teams are selecting seats and institutions. The system in Vietnam is ready for its next stage. The question for foreign counsel is simple. How can you plan today so that your contracts benefit from tomorrow’s improvements.

In here, we discuss why now is the right time to pay attention and how you can turn reform into practical advantage.

Vietnam Arbitration Law Reform: 7 Reasons Foreign Counsels Cannot Ignore

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Trademark protection in Vietnam? How does it work?

Trademark Protection in Vietnam

How to protect trademark in Vietnam?

Trademark protection in Vietnam is initially obtained through trademark registration. Trademark opposition could be filed to prevent a pending application for a mark from being granted application. Litigation is the final measure to handle dispute during trademark protection in Vietnam.

Trademark protection in Vietnam? How does it work?

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Trademark Opposition in Vietnam: 10 Critical Facts Every Foreign Business Must Know to Protect Your Brand

Safeguard Your Business Legacy in Vietnam

Imagine the situation that your business has successfully entered Vietnam’s vibrant market. Your products or services are gaining traction, your brand is becoming recognized, and your future in the region looks bright.

But one day, you discover a competitor, or worse, an opportunist, has filed a trademark application that resembles your brand too closely. If left unchecked, this could lead to customer confusion, brand dilution, and a tarnished reputation.

Understanding Trademark Opposition in Vietnam

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