The Vietnamese government has officially introduced Decree No. 299/2026/ND-CP, which sets forth comprehensive regulations regarding the organization and management of public service units. Effective from July 28, 2026, this decree aims to enhance the operational efficiency and accountability of public service entities across various sectors.

The decree outlines the conditions for the establishment, restructuring, dissolution, and classification of public service units. It mandates that any new public service unit must ensure financial self-sufficiency for regular operational costs, except in cases where the unit is established to provide essential public services. Furthermore, units that are financially self-sufficient must also cover their investment costs when newly established.

One of the key principles emphasized in the decree is that the establishment and restructuring of public service units must adhere to specific procedures and authority as outlined in the regulations. This includes the requirement that these units can provide multiple public services within the same sector or across various fields.

The decree specifies the criteria for establishing a public service unit, which includes alignment with industry planning, adherence to legal standards, and a minimum staffing requirement of 15 employees. Additionally, for units operating abroad, compliance with international agreements and foreign policy is essential.

Moreover, the decree introduces classification criteria for public service units based on their legal status, the nature of services provided, and their financial autonomy. Units will be ranked according to various criteria, including organizational scale, workforce structure, infrastructure, and operational effectiveness.

Overall, Decree No. 299/2026 aims to create a more structured and efficient framework for public service units in Vietnam, ensuring that they can effectively meet the needs of the public while maintaining financial sustainability.