Deputy Tạ Thị Yên, deputy head of the provincial NA Delegates Affairs Committee, raised concerns about defining digital technology as a distinct economic sector, questioning whether this aligns with international norms for economic and scientific classification.

The draft law proposes that digital technology includes both information technology and emerging digital technologies. However, Deputy Yên argued this definition overlaps with existing legislation governing information technology, high technology, and digital innovation.

“In building a digital economy, government, society, and citizenry, we cannot categorise all aspects of digital technology into a single industry,” she stated.

Citing a report from the National Assembly's Committee on Science, Technology, and Environment, Deputy Yên expressed doubts about the necessity of the proposed law. With existing regulations such as the Information Technology Law, High Technology Law, Electronic Transactions Law, and Telecommunications Law, alongside the ongoing review of the Data Law, she urged careful consideration to avoid legal redundancies.

Deputy Yên highlighted that digital technology permeates sectors like telecommunications, IT, semiconductors, and automation. She stressed the need for detailed scrutiny to ensure consistency within Việt Nam’s legal framework.

While acknowledging new provisions related to digital assets, the semiconductor industry, artificial intelligence, and controlled testing mechanisms, she called for more rigorous research. These elements, she emphasised, must address Việt Nam’s specific needs and ensure practical application.

Although supportive of digital asset regulations, Deputy Tạ Thị Yên highlighted their complexity and called for adapting international experiences to suit Việt Nam’s unique conditions.

She also criticised the draft law's lack of clarity on key areas such as infrastructure, finance, human resources, markets, and data standardisation. Deputy Yên urged for targeted and detailed policies, particularly regarding incentives and mechanisms to foster innovation.

Additionally, she warned of potential conflicts with existing laws on investment, personal income tax, and corporate income tax, which could hinder the implementation process.

Deputy Yên commended the proposal for controlled testing mechanisms, especially in financial technology, as a means to stimulate innovation. "With rapid, transformative advancements in science and technology, controlled testing mechanisms ensure research outcomes are effectively applied in practice," she said.

In conclusion, she emphasised the importance of crafting policies that balance fostering digital transformation with addressing practical challenges, ensuring Việt Nam remains aligned with global technological advancements.