In a sweeping move poised to reshape the landscape of governance, Vietnam’s National Assembly has approved an ambitious reform plan aimed at trimming its bureaucracy by up to 20%. As the nation seeks to enhance administrative efficiency and reduce costs, the number of government ministries will be cut from 18 to a streamlined 14, set to take effect on March 1.
With an overwhelming 97% of lawmakers in favor, this landmark decision marks a significant shift in the country’s approach to governance. The assembly’s earlier vote to amend laws governing the organization of government laid the groundwork for this extensive restructuring, which will also see reductions among various administrative bodies, including four agencies and five state television channels.
General Secretary of the Communist Party, To Lam, emphasized the dual benefits of this initiative, stating it would both conserve state resources and bolster overall system efficiency. Investors and diplomats have greeted the reform with optimism, although they anticipate potential administrative delays in the short term, particularly in a nation that heavily relies on foreign investment. The government has assured that project approvals will remain unaffected.
The forthcoming changes will see a merging of key ministries, including the planning and investment ministry with the finance ministry, and the transport ministry with the construction ministry. Additionally, the natural resources and environment ministry will be combined with the agriculture ministry.
In a related move, the assembly has ratified the appointment of two new deputy prime ministers, expanding the role from five to seven. As the world witnesses similar cost-cutting measures in the wake of the pandemic—echoed by leaders like Argentina’s Javier Milei and former US President Donald Trump—Vietnam’s state media has reported that this restructuring could impact around 100,000 state officials.
Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Hoa Binh underscored the necessity of this overhaul, asserting, “Poor-performing employees must be removed from the system. State agencies must not be safe shelters for incompetent officials.” As Vietnam embarks on this transformative journey, the eyes of the world are on its commitment to efficiency and accountability in governance.
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