In a significant move towards modernizing Việt Nam’s railway infrastructure, the 43rd session of the National Assembly (NA) Standing Committee, chaired by Trần Thanh Mẫn, kicked off yesterday with a comprehensive review of legislative proposals. High on the agenda was the draft amended Railway Law, presented by Deputy Minister of Construction Nguyễn Danh Huy, which introduced a fresh approach to lawmaking aimed at streamlining administrative procedures and enhancing efficiency in the railway sector.
The revised law, structured into eight chapters and 70 articles, represents a significant simplification from the 2017 Railway Law, with two chapters and 17 articles removed. This streamlining is expected to cut administrative processes by 20% and business conditions by 33%, a move that could greatly simplify investment procedures and boost efficiency in the railway sector. “The proposed amendments aim to mobilise resources from localities and various economic sectors for railway infrastructure investment,” Huy emphasised, highlighting the law’s focus on clarifying stakeholder responsibilities and optimising the use of national and local railway lines.
A standout feature of the draft law is its new classification of Việt Nam’s railway system, distinguishing between national, local, and dedicated railways. This classification, alongside revised regulations on state-funded railway infrastructure assets, is set to address longstanding issues in the transfer of these assets to the Việt Nam Railways Corporation. Lê Quang Huy, Chairman of the NA’s Committee on Science, Technology and Environment, stressed the importance of refining coordination mechanisms among management agencies, calling for a robust monitoring and inspection system to ensure consistent and effective railway investment projects.
Transparency and safety were also major topics of discussion. The reviewing body proposed clearer oversight responsibilities for Government agencies and stricter enforcement measures for safety, maintenance, and infrastructure upgrades. A proposed requirement for public disclosure of information on the quality and operational status of railway infrastructure underscored the commitment to transparency.
Chairman Mẫn echoed the sentiments of the committee, emphasising the need for breakthrough policies that decentralise and delegate greater authority to local governments in railway management. He also highlighted the importance of aligning the revised law with existing legislation to prevent conflicts and overlaps. “We need to prioritise resources, technology, and workforce training, incorporating international best practices,” Mẫn stated, encouraging the promotion of transit-oriented development (TOD) models and efficient land use mechanisms.
However, the draft law’s provisions on prohibiting encroachment on railway safety corridors and infrastructure protection zones raised concerns among committee members. Chairwoman of the NA’s Committee on Deputies’ Affairs Nguyễn Thanh Hải pointed to existing structures that violate these regulations, such as the bustling railway cafe street in central Hà Nội and densely built houses along Giải Phóng Street. She questioned whether there is a budget allocated for relocating affected households, highlighting the practical challenges that lie ahead.
The session also included reviews of three draft laws—the revised Laws on Special Consumption Tax, Corporate Income Tax, and Management and Investment of State Capital in Enterprises—all crucial for driving economic growth towards the nation’s 8% target. Additionally, the committee discussed bills for initial consideration, including amendments to the Law on Product and Goods Quality, the Law on Personal Data Protection, the Law on the State of Emergency, and the Law on Participation in UN Peacekeeping Operations.
The deliberations on reducing 2024 land rental fees and a draft resolution on standards for clean and strong Party organisations under the Law on Emulation and Commendation further emphasised the committee’s broad agenda. As the session progresses, the outcomes of these discussions could shape the future of Việt Nam’s railway infrastructure and broader economic policies, setting the stage for a more efficient, transparent, and sustainable development path. The human element, from the relocation of households to the training of the workforce, remains central to these ambitious plans, ensuring that the benefits of modernization are felt across all levels of society.
