Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha proposed creating Vietnam’s own e-commerce platform to increase the efficiency in governing online trade activities at a question-and-answer session held by the 15th National Assembly (NA) on Wednesday.

The ongoing question-and-answer sessions are set to last for two and a half days until Thursday.

Deputy PM Ha affirmed that e-commerce is an essential trend and would gradually replace wet markets and in-person stores.

Since 2006, Vietnam has constantly supplemented and amended laws on e-commerce in an effort to keep up with other nations, said Ha.

Several decrees on e-commerce are implemented, while Vietnam already built a resident database based on information technology, making it easier to drive up e-commerce.

He proposed the Ministry of Information and Communications research a plan to build a Vietnamese e-commerce platform to ensure cybersecurity, facilitate customs payment, and set up a synchronous logistics system.

“We can establish a multisector agency to supervise all activities, especially in the digital climate, and smartly manage the communications environment,” the deputy prime minister said.

In response to a question about cybersecurity, information privacy, and the fight against smuggled goods sold online, Ha threw his support behind a proposal to closely govern social media platforms.

He underscored that international platforms where transactions are conducted in Vietnam must comply with Vietnamese laws.

If Vietnam issues regulations on contracts, transactions, and online sales, the management of online marketplaces, vendors, and tax obligations will become more effective, he said, adding that the country needs its own e-commerce platform.

On Wednesday morning, NA deputies questioned the Minister of Industry and Trade on matters under his ministry’s management, while also grilling government members on issues related to auditing, culture, sports, and tourism, as part of the ongoing seventh session, according to the Vietnam News Agency.

Like us on Facebook or follow us on Twitter to get the latest news about Vietnam!