In a significant move for digital consumers, the Vietnamese government has introduced a new regulation that will force platforms like YouTube to make advertisements skippable within a very short timeframe. This law, known as Decree 342/2025, is designed to protect users from frustrating and lengthy ad experiences that have become common online.
What Does Vietnam's New Ad Skipping Law Mandate?
The core of Decree 342/2025 is straightforward: it puts the control back into the hands of the user. The regulation states that all digital platforms operating within Vietnam must provide users with the ability to skip or close any form of advertisement within a maximum of five seconds. This rule applies to a wide range of ad formats, including:
- Video advertisements (pre-roll, mid-roll)
- Animated content and static banner ads
- Pop-up advertisements
Furthermore, the decree takes a strong stand against deceptive design practices, often called "dark patterns." Platforms are now required to remove any misleading elements that trick users into clicking ads. All skip or close buttons must be clearly visible and functional. Pop-up ads, for instance, cannot use fake close buttons or confusing icons.
Strict Compliance and Enforcement Mechanisms
The Vietnamese authorities have outlined clear responsibilities and consequences for non-compliance. The law places the onus on advertising platforms, content providers, and publishers to ensure their ad systems adhere to the new rules.
A critical requirement is the 24-hour removal window for any advertisement flagged by the government as illegal or harmful. If a platform fails to comply with a takedown request, Vietnam’s Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) has the power to block the offending content. Authorities can also pursue further legal action against the non-compliant entity.
Interestingly, the decree's reach extends beyond just the platforms. Telecommunication and internet service providers (ISPs) in Vietnam are also required to assist in restricting access to advertisements that do not follow the new law, creating a multi-layered enforcement system.
Impact and Implementation Timeline
This legislative change is seen as a major step by the Vietnamese government to create a safer and more user-friendly digital environment. Unskippable ads, particularly those ranging from 15 to 30 seconds, have been a source of global user annoyance, and this amendment directly addresses that pain point.
The law is scheduled to come into effect on February 15, 2026. This gives global giants like YouTube and other online streaming services a window to adapt their current advertising systems for the Vietnamese market. For users in Vietnam, the implementation promises a less interrupted online experience, allowing for quicker browsing and viewing without being forced to sit through prolonged commercial breaks.
This proactive regulation positions Vietnam at the forefront of digital consumer protection in the Asia Pacific region, potentially setting a precedent for other nations grappling with intrusive online advertising practices.
