All essential data on natural resources and environment of Vietnam will be stored in a national database and accessible for the public as soon as they are published on the mass media, including the Internet and websites of central and local state agencies, except those classified as state secrets. However, organizations and individuals wishing to get access to and use some kinds of data must make written requests or sign contracts with the managing agencies and pay prescribed charges. They are not allowed to freely transfer such data to third parties without authority.
This national database, which is to be developed by the Natural Resources and Environment Ministry under Government Decree No. 102/2008/ND-CP of September 15, on collection, management and exploitation of natural resources and environment data, will serve as an effective tool of state administration in relevant domains, promoting socio-economic development and maintaining defense and security.
The State encourages organizations and individuals of all economic sectors to invest in surveying, collecting data and developing databases, and donate collected valuable natural resources and environment data.-