Under the new regulation, “top secret” classification applies to strategic plans and action programmes implementing Party and State policies on industrial, trade and energy development that directly serve defence and security missions.
It also covers documents, reports and solutions across key sectors—including mechanical engineering, metallurgy, chemicals, industrial explosives, electricity, oil and gas, and trade—where these are directly tied to national security tasks.
In addition, files and materials relating to Project DA-16/08 fall under the “top secret” category, with specific exemptions. Excluded from classification are documents concerning routine scientific, technological and innovation tasks during project implementation, consultancy-related materials, and equipment, technologies or software used for state management or commercial production purposes.
Meanwhile, a broad range of information is classified as “secret”. This includes plans and reports on Viet Nam’s participation in international economic forums such as ASEAN, APEC, ASEM and the WTO, as well as free trade and preferential trade agreements currently under consideration by competent authorities. Reports submitted to senior Party and State leaders on international integration and trade policies with significant socio-economic impact are also covered.
Other classified materials include inter-ministerial consultation documents on trade remedy investigations, submissions to the Government and the Prime Minister regarding partner selection and agreements for major power projects tied to national security, and internal electricity supply designs for defence and security facilities.
The “secret” category further extends to operational plans for the national and regional power systems during major political and socio-economic events, oil and gas exploration data in offshore and deep-water areas related to defence, and strategies concerning uranium, thorium and rare earth resources.
Technical specifications and operational layouts of key facilities in the power, chemical and petrochemical industries serving defence purposes are also protected.
Additionally, draft plans for adjusting fuel and electricity prices currently under review by ministries and senior leadership are classified at this level.
The decision took effect on March 25, 2026, replacing Decision No. 1369/QD-TTg issued in 2020.
