Vietnam Updates Special Policy Framework for Ninh Thuan Nuclear Power Project

Vietnam’s National Assembly Standing Committee has issued a new resolution revising special policy mechanisms for the Ninh Thuan nuclear power project, with updated provisions on compensation, land recovery and resettlement. The measures aim to align implementation with current conditions while strengthening support for affected communities. According to the Ministry of Industry and Trade, the changes modify elements of Resolution No. 189/2025/QH15 and took effect immediately after being adopted on 30 March 2026.

Resolution Updates Policies for Land Acquisition and Community Support

The revised framework was finalised following a review meeting held on the morning of 30 March 2026. Representatives from the Ministry of Industry and Trade and other ministries attended the session, organised by the National Assembly’s Committee for Science, Technology and Environment, to examine amendments to policies governing investment in the Ninh Thuan nuclear power project.

Later the same day, the National Assembly Standing Committee completed the necessary procedures and issued Resolution No. 121/2026/UBTVQH15. The resolution introduces several adjustments to improve policy clarity and strengthen support mechanisms for people affected by land acquisition.

Enhanced Compensation and Livelihood Support Measures

A central feature of the resolution is the introduction of expanded compensation, support and resettlement arrangements when land is recovered for the project. These provisions increase assistance levels and are designed to better protect the rights and interests of residents in the project area.

The resolution also introduces specific policies for agricultural land that is subject to acquisition. These include higher levels of support for vocational training, job transition programmes and employment assistance for affected households.

Additional provisions clarify resettlement arrangements and allow exemptions or reductions in certain land-related financial obligations in defined circumstances. The resolution also refines terminology and responsibilities among implementing entities to better reflect practical requirements during project execution.

Ensuring Consistent Application Across the Project

The policy changes apply immediately from the date of adoption and will be implemented consistently across the project. The resolution specifies that cases where land recovery decisions or compensation plans were previously approved under Resolution No. 189/2025/QH15 will also follow the updated provisions, ensuring continuity and uniform application.

Vietnam’s wider infrastructure development agenda is closely linked with its ambitions to support emerging digital industries. For example, the country has seen rapid expansion in technology investment, including developments highlighted in Vietnam’s data centre investment boom driven by AI and cloud adoption. Reliable large-scale energy infrastructure is considered an important factor in supporting such long-term economic and technological growth.

The Ninh Thuan project forms part of Vietnam’s broader strategy to ensure stable energy supply for future development. As the country expands high-technology sectors and digital infrastructure—such as initiatives described in Vietnam’s growing role as an AI investment hub in Southeast Asia—policy frameworks for major energy projects are expected to evolve alongside implementation needs.

Authorities indicated that further adjustments to special mechanisms and policies may be considered as project implementation progresses, ensuring that regulatory frameworks remain aligned with practical conditions and development priorities.