Vietnam Issues Decree on Penalties for Administrative Violations in the Water Resources Sector

On November 6, 2025, the Government of Vietnam promulgated Decree No. 290/2025/ND-CP, which stipulates penalties for administrative violations in the water resources sector. The decree establishes sanctions for violations of various provisions of the Law on Water Resources (No. 28/2023/QH15), including the protection of water resources, water resource development, and water pollution. It replaces the penalty provisions previously set out in Decree No. 36/2020/ND-CP and Decree No. 04/2022/ND-CP. The decree will take effect on December 25, 2025.

Key points under the decree are as follows.