VIAC Meets with Deputy Minister of Justice – Mr. Mai Luong Khoi to Discuss the Development of Commercial Arbitration and Mediation in Vietnam

On 16 October 2026, the Vietnam International Arbitration Centre (VIAC) had the honour of welcoming and meeting with a delegation from the Ministry of Justice, led by Deputy Minister Mai Luong Khoi, with the participation of senior representatives from the Department of Judicial Support, the Department of Civil Judgment Enforcement Management, and other relevant units. Representing VIAC at the meeting were Prof. Dr. Le Hong Hanh - President of VIAC; Mr. Vu Anh Duong - Permanent Vice President cum Secretary General of VIAC; Ms. Nguyen Thi Mai - Director of the Vietnam Mediation Centre (VMC); and representatives of VIAC’s professional departments.

The meeting focused on discussing the practical operation of commercial arbitration and mediation in Vietnam in general and at VIAC in particular. The parties also exchanged views on legal and practical issues to support the research and development of proposals to amend and improve the legal framework governing commercial arbitration and mediation in the coming period, with a view to enhancing the effectiveness of dispute resolution through out of court mechanisms.

At the meeting, Deputy Minister of Justice - Mr. Mai Luong Khoi acknowledged and highly appreciated VIAC’s achievements throughout its operations, particularly its contributions to the development of commercial arbitration and mediation in Vietnam. He emphasised that, amid growing demands for innovation in lawmaking and law enforcement, judicial reform, and deeper international integration, improving the quality and effectiveness of out-of-court dispute resolution mechanisms has become an important priority. This is closely linked to the objectives of safeguarding the legitimate rights and interests of businesses and investors and fostering a transparent and stable business environment.

In this regard, the Deputy Minister called on VIAC and the relevant professional units under the Ministry of Justice to strengthen their exchanges and coordination, particularly in reviewing the practical implementation of the law and identifying difficulties and obstacles arising in commercial arbitration and mediation. Information, experience, and recommendations drawn from actual dispute resolution practice will provide an important basis for research and proposals to amend, supplement, and improve the legal framework, ensuring that legal provisions are practicable, aligned with real-world needs, and responsive to the requirements of parties engaged in investment and business activities.

On behalf of VIAC, Prof. Dr. Le Hong Hanh expressed his appreciation for the Ministry of Justice leadership’s attention, recognition, and practical guidance regarding VIAC’s operations in particular and the development of commercial arbitration and mediation in Vietnam more broadly. As Vietnam continues to deepen its international economic integration, strengthen its legal institutions, and improve its investment and business environment, dispute resolution mechanisms such as arbitration and mediation are playing an increasingly important role in protecting the legitimate rights and interests of the parties, supporting contract enforcement, and reinforcing the confidence of the business and investment communities.

Drawing on its practical experience in resolving commercial disputes, VIAC also shared several issues that warrant attention in the process of improving the legal framework for commercial arbitration and mediation. These include the need for the State to enhance the effectiveness of these dispute resolution mechanisms, strengthen support mechanisms provided by judicial authorities, and ensure the effectiveness and enforceability of arbitral awards and mediated settlement agreements in accordance with the law.

Improving the relevant legal provisions and mechanisms would not only enhance the operational effectiveness of arbitration and mediation institutions but also strengthen legal certainty, predictability, and the enforceability of commercial commitments, thereby contributing to an improved investment and business environment in Vietnam.

These orientations are also consistent with the spirit of Resolution No. 68-NQ/TW, which emphasises the need to enhance the transparency, authority, and effectiveness of commercial arbitration in resolving international commercial disputes, ensuring that proceedings are prompt, fair, objective, and conducted on an equal footing. They are also aligned with Resolution No. 66-NQ/TW, which calls for measures to encourage and promote the development of out-of-court dispute resolution mechanisms, including commercial arbitration and mediation.

As one of Vietnam’s leading arbitration and mediation institutions, VIAC will continue to leverage its professional expertise and practical experience and actively contribute to the development, refinement, and effective implementation of policies and legislation on commercial arbitration and mediation. Through these efforts, VIAC aims to promote increasingly effective and reliable out-of-court dispute resolution mechanisms that meet Vietnam’s economic development and international integration needs.