On June 26, the Vietnamese government announced a new regulation mandating the use of child safety seats for children under 10 years old and shorter than 1.35 meters when traveling in vehicles. This regulation, outlined in Decree 238/2026/ND-CP, will take effect on August 15, 2023, and aims to improve road safety for young passengers.

According to the decree, drivers who fail to comply with this requirement will receive a warning. Specifically, it states that drivers transporting children under the specified height and age must use appropriate safety devices, which can include child seats, booster seats, or safety belts designed for children. Notably, children are prohibited from sitting in the front seat next to the driver.

The regulation is part of a broader effort to enhance road safety and follows amendments to the Road Traffic Law, which emphasize the importance of using safety equipment for children. The law highlights that standard seat belts are often unsuitable for smaller children, as they may not provide adequate protection during a collision. In fact, for children under 1.35 meters, seat belts can incorrectly position themselves, leading to serious injuries in the event of an accident.

The government has set a grace period from July 1 to August 14, during which drivers will be fined between 800,000 to 1 million VND for non-compliance. Authorities have stressed that many parents mistakenly believe holding a child in their lap is safe. However, in the event of sudden stops or collisions, this practice can lead to severe injuries as children can easily be thrown from an adult's arms.

As the new regulation approaches, parents and caregivers are urged to familiarize themselves with the requirements to ensure the safety of their children while traveling.