Decree No. 38/2021/ND-CP on prescribing penalties for administrative violations involving cultural and advertising activities

Decree No. 38/2021/ND-CP, dated March 29, 2021, issued by the Government, provides regulations on administrative penalties for violations in the fields of culture and advertising, replacing Decree No. 158/2013/ND-CP. This Decree governs violations related to cultural and artistic activities, cinema, fine arts, photography, libraries, cultural heritage, festivals, and advertising. Notable violations subject to heavy fines include: offensive performances or inappropriate costumes contrary to traditional values (fines up to VND 40 million); false or misleading advertisements about products and services (fines up to VND 100 million); advertisements for prohibited products such as alcohol and tobacco; and acts that distort history or insult religions or national heroes. In addition to monetary fines, the Decree stipulates remedial measures such as forced removal or correction of violating content, revocation of licenses, or suspension of operations. Effective from June 1, 2021, the Decree aims to strengthen state management, protect cultural values, and uphold social ethics.