[Latest News] Vietnam’s National Assembly Approves Capital Contribution via Technology Assets

In a move aimed at bolstering innovation and facilitating the commercialization of intellectual property, the National Assembly has passed a landmark amendment allowing individuals and organizations to contribute capital in the form of technology assets.

Under the updated law, parties with the right to transfer technologies will be permitted to use patents, proprietary technologies or other legally recognized tech assets - instead of cash - as their share of capital in eligible investment projects. This shift is expected to unlock significant “frozen value” of research outcomes, stimulate the science–technology market, and inject fresh momentum into the digital economy.

The amendment is part of a broader legal overhaul designed to streamline the process of technology transfer, promote startup formation and support public-private collaboration in research-to-market pathways. It represents a strategic effort to leverage innovation as a driver of economic growth and competitiveness in the global knowledge economy.

Lawmakers noted that clear regulations on the valuation of contributed technologies will be essential. To guard against inflated appraisals and ensure transparency - especially in projects involving state capital - the law mandates strict valuation procedures and, in some cases, requires independent valuation by certified experts. Technologies whose legal ownership or usage rights remain unclear will be ineligible for capital contribution.

The measure has been welcomed by many as a breakthrough, offering a legal framework for turning intellectual property into tangible investment capital - a move expected to help innovative enterprises, research institutions and startups across Vietnam accelerate technology commercialization.