Law On Protection of Consumer Rights 2023

1. Protection for Vulnerable Consumers 

The law clearly defines “vulnerable consumers,” including: 

• Elderly persons 

• Persons with disabilities 

• Children 

• Pregnant women or those raising children under 36 months old 

• Ethnic minorities 

• Persons with serious illnesses 

• Members of poor households 

Businesses are required to prioritize handling the requests of these consumers and are prohibited from transferring their information to third parties, unless the third party has a relevant legal obligation. 

2. Increased Responsibilities for Businesses 

Businesses must: 

• Provide complete and accurate information about goods and services 

• Ensure safety and quality of products 

• Protect consumers’ personal data 

• Handle complaints and disputes transparently and in a timely manner 

3. Regulation of Special Transactions 

A new chapter is introduced to regulate special types of transactions, including: 

• Remote transactions 

• Electronic transactions 

• Transactions conducted at the consumer’s residence 

Businesses involved in these transactions must ensure clear, accessible information and uphold consumer rights. 

4. Empowering Consumer Protection Organizations 

Social organizations protecting consumer rights may: 

• Provide consultation and support to consumers 

• Participate in dispute resolution 

• File lawsuits for public interest under certain conditions 

5. Flexible Dispute Resolution Mechanisms 

Consumers and businesses may resolve disputes via: 

• Negotiation 

• Mediation 

• Arbitration 

• Court proceedings 

Notably, consumer civil disputes with transaction values under VND 100 million can be resolved under simplified procedures without meeting all conditions set out in Clause 1, Article 317 of the Civil Procedure Code.