Perfecting the law on controlling investment and production activities of tobacco products in the context of sustainable development in Vietnam today

Abstract

Tobacco is a special type of commodity due to its harm to human health and the environment, yet it also generates significant economic value and remains widely used in Vietnam and many other countries. Consequently, in Vietnam, the production, trade and use of tobacco are permitted but under strict state control from the investment in raw material production to the consumption of finished products based on the principles of supply reduction, consumption restriction, and mitigation of adverse health impacts. Although the legal framework governing tobacco-related investment and business activities has seen various improvements, notable shortcomings have been seen in the stage of product manufacturing investment – the final phase before tobacco products reach the market. These shortcomings reduced the effectiveness of state management, pose challenges to implementing actors, and adversely affect sustainable development goals. This article analyzes the limitations within the current legal framework regarding the regulation of investment and production activities in the tobacco sector. It also proposes several solutions aimed at addressing existing issues, improving the legal framework, and enhancing the effectiveness of state management in this area.