In an era of rapid digital expansion and complex e-commerce, staying informed about your rights is the best way to protect your wallet. Vietnam’s Law on Protection of Consumer Rights 2023 officially took effect on July 1, 2024, replacing the decade-old 2010 version. Whether you are an online shopper, a tech enthusiast, or a frequent traveler, these updates are designed to shield you from modern scams and unfair business practices.
1. Protection for “Remote Transactions” (Online Shopping)
The most significant shift in the new law is the formal regulation of “Remote Transactions.” This refers to any purchase made where the consumer cannot physically inspect the product beforehand—primarily online shopping and social media commerce.
Mandatory Transparency: Sellers on platforms like TikTok, Shopee, or Facebook must provide comprehensive, accurate information about the product’s origin, functions, and technical specifications.
The Right to Cancel: If a seller provides inaccurate information, consumers now have clearer legal grounds to cancel the transaction and demand a full refund.
2. Stricter Rules for Influencers and “Seeding”
Have you ever bought a product because a famous influencer recommended it, only to find out it was low quality? The new law addresses this directly.
Influencer Accountability: Influencers (KOLs/KOCs) must now clearly disclose if their content is sponsored.
False Advertising: Taking advantage of one’s reputation to encourage consumers to buy products without notifying them of a commercial partnership is now a prohibited action. This prevents “blind trust” from leading to financial loss.
3. Protection for “Vulnerable Consumers”
For the first time, the law identifies and provides extra layers of protection for Vulnerable Consumers. This group includes:
The elderly and children.
People with disabilities.
People living in ethnic minority or mountainous areas.
Those with chronic illnesses.
Businesses interacting with these groups must implement specific support mechanisms and cannot refuse to resolve their complaints based on their vulnerability.
4. Simplified Dispute Resolution: Under 100 Million VND
One of the biggest hurdles for consumers in the past was the cost of a lawsuit compared to the value of the item.
Fast-Track Court Proceedings: For disputes involving transactions worth less than 100 million VND (~$4,000), courts can now use simplified procedures.
No Fault Required for Compensation: If a defective product causes damage to your health or property, the business is liable for compensation even if they weren’t aware of the defect.
5. Enhanced Privacy: Protecting Transaction History
Under the 2023 Law, “Consumer Information” has been expanded. It’s no longer just your name and phone number; your transaction history is now legally protected.
Data Security: E-commerce platforms are forbidden from sharing your buying habits or frequency with third parties without your explicit consent.
Control Over Ads: You have the right to opt-out of “behavioral advertising” that tracks your clicks to push unwanted products.
6. Responsibility of Digital Platform Operators
If you get scammed on a large marketplace, the platform itself now shares more responsibility.
Seller Verification: Platforms must verify and display the real identity of sellers.
Public Blacklists: The law allows for the public listing of businesses that violate consumer rights, helping you identify “red flags” before you click “Buy.”
How to Protect Yourself: 3 Essential Tips
To ensure you don’t lose money under the new legal framework, follow these steps:
Save the Evidence: Always take screenshots of the product description, the “sponsored” tag on influencer posts, and your chat history with the seller.
Verify the Identity: Check if the seller’s information is clearly displayed on the platform. If it’s hidden, be cautious.
Know the 100 Million Rule: Remember that small-value disputes can now be settled quickly in court. Don’t be afraid to mention this to a stubborn seller to encourage a fair refund.
Conclusion
The Consumer Protection Law 2023 is a powerful shield in the digital age. By emphasizing transparency in online transactions and holding influencers accountable, the law ensures that the “power” remains in the hands of the buyer. Stay vigilant, know your rights, and never let a shady transaction slide!