Important Points of the Science and Technology Act of 2013  

The Science and Technology act of 2013 was amended by the National Assembly on 18th June 2013 and went in effect from 1st January 2014 is expected to create several positive innovations for Science and Technology in Vietnam. These are five breakthrough points of the Science and Technology act of 2013.

Method of investment in Science and Technology
Besides national funding for R&D, enterprises in general also have to spend a part of pre-tax profits to invest for R&D activities through the establishment of the Science and Technology Development Funds of Businesses (Section 55, 56).

Budget Management and Use for Scientific Research
(Section 59, 60, 61) The model of the National Foundation for Science and Technology Development (NAFOSTED) allows managers and scientists to manage and use funds in a lump sum to the final product, skipping time-consuming administration processes. With this model of fund, managers can also use the budget to buy scientific or technological products from researchers. This breakthrough provision helps to not only enhance the responsibility of the scientists but also remedy many loopholes of budget management for scientific research activities.

Science and Technology Organization
In order to knock down any barriers that prevent the practical application of science to commerce and industry, the Ministry of Science and Technology makes it easier to turn new ideas submitted by agencies, organizations or individuals into new research projects. Financial incentives influence researchers to focus more on the applicability of their research.

Function of the Commander of Science and Technology
Science and Technology Act of 2013 regulates clear authorities and responsibilities of Ministry of Science and Technology in establishing the 5-year plan, proposing funds, managing and controlling effectively national budget for Science and Technology. Other ministries only play an advisory role and coordinate in issues related to their branches.

Policies and Incentives for Scientists
The revised act specifies a series of preferential policies about salary and subsidies for leading scientists (Section23). Another remarkable point is that talented and qualified young scientists may be appointed to high positions in science and technology organizations. The amended act also specifies many treatment regimens for overseas Vietnamese scientists and international experts participating in research projects in Vietnam (Section24).

Despite its many shortcomings, Science and Technology Act of 2013 is expected to contribute significantly to strengthening the legal framework in management of science and technology as well as shortening the gap between research and practice in Vietnam.

Thu Hien (summarized from Tia Sang).