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| Vinh Hy Bay, within the Nui Chua World Biosphere Reserve in Khanh Hoa province__Photo: VNA |
The Ministry of Finance has unveiled a draft revision of the Planning Law which is designed to reshape Vietnam’s planning framework and open greater space for development in the new era. Key proposals include introducing marine spatial planning, shortening the timeframe for provincial-level planning, and loosening the rigid integration of urban and rural planning.
Incorporating marine space planning and clarifying planning functions
One of the most significant highlights of the draft is the expansion of the national planning system from four to five categories. Notably, marine space planning would be designated as a separate category, rather than being grouped under sectoral planning as currently provided by law. This revision reflects a strategic shift toward sustainable development closely linked with national sovereignty and economic potential of Vietnam’s marine resources.
The draft reaffirms the hierarchical structure and distinct functions of various types of master plans. The national master plan remains the highest-level strategic document serving as the legal foundation for all subordinate and sectoral planning activities. This clearer delineation of roles and hierarchy is expected to prevent overlaps among master plans and improve coordination between central and local administrations.
In addition, the draft addresses the issue of planning integration by distinguishing two types of integration: horizontal integration (coordination across sectors at the same administrative level) and vertical integration (alignment between central and local planning levels). Notably, hi-tech sectors such as national defense, energy and telecommunications might be allowed to have independent master plans where integration proves unfeasible. This pragmatic approach paves the way for the adoption of advanced technical standards in strategic sectors without compromising the overall coherence of the national planning system.
Shortening timeframe for provincial-level planning
Another important change is the reduction of the timeframe for preparing provincial-level master plans to 24 months, instead of 30 month as at present. This change aims to address persistent delays that have adversely impacted public investment and business activities across provinces.
The draft also enhances the accountability of agencies in charge of planning activities with clearer guidelines on selection of consultancy units, ensuring the quality of planning products and independent planning monitoring.
Ending rigid integration of urban and rural planning
The draft introduces a new approach to formulate urban and rural master plans whereby these master plans will no longer be rigidly integrated into provincial-level plans but would instead be recognized as specialized technical plans. Nonetheless, to ensure spatial and infrastructural coherence, urban and rural master plans must still align with the overarching provincial framework. This change aims to balance flexibility with consistent top-down coordination across planning levels.
To support these improvements, the draft mandates the development of a national planning database that would be interoperable with land, transportation, construction, environmental protection and other sectoral databases. This aims to enhance transparency and streamline the processes of plan formulation, appraisal and monitoring. The digital transformation of planning also provides opportunities for applying forecasting technologies, simulating urban development, and proactively managing environmental risks.
The draft also provides clearer guidelines for resolving conflicts between new and existing plans during the transitional period. They are intended to ensure continuity in the implementation of investment projects and socio-economic development initiatives. This is a critical step toward maintaining policy stability and building investor confidence as the legal framework continues to evolve.- (VLLF)
