Viet Nam finalises criteria for classifying seaports

Issued on September 30, 2026, the document consolidates Government Decree No. 76/2021/ND-CP and Decree No. 14/2026/ND-CP, which amended several provisions to cut and simplify administrative procedures.

The regulations apply to agencies, organisations and individuals involved in the planning, construction investment, management, operation and use of Viet Nam’s seaport system.

Under the new regulations, seaports will be assessed using a 100-point system based on two groups of criteria: scope of influence and port scale, with each carrying a maximum of 50 points.

The scope-of-influence criterion is determined based on the approved master plan for the development of Viet Nam’s seaport system. It considers a port’s role in serving national or inter-regional socio-economic development, including international transshipment and gateway functions, as well as services for the national, regional or local economy.

The port-scale criterion is assessed based on cargo throughput, including dry bulk, general cargo, containers and liquid cargo, as well as the deadweight tonnage of vessels handled at commercial general cargo and container terminals and specialised terminals.

Based on the total score, seaports are classified into four categories: special-class ports with more than 90 points; Class I ports scoring more than 70 to 90 points; Class II ports scoring 50 to 70 points; and Class III ports scoring below 50 points.

Assessment data will include approved planning documents, average cargo throughput over the previous three years and the vessel deadweight tonnage handled at each port.

The revised procedure specifies the responsibilities and deadlines of relevant agencies and promotes the use of information technology.

Every five years, or when necessary, the Viet Nam Maritime and Inland Waterways Administration will prepare and assess a list of seaports for classification and submit it to the Ministry of Construction.

Within five days of receiving a complete and valid dossier, the ministry will seek opinions from relevant ministries, agencies and local authorities. They must respond within two days.

The ministry will then complete the appraisal within eight days and submit the classification to the Prime Minister for approval and publication.

The new framework is expected to provide a consistent basis for seaport management and planning, facilitate investment and improve the efficiency of maritime infrastructure, contributing to the development of the marine economy and international integration.