VINACHEM

Vietnam is moving toward mastering nuclear energy technology to support socio-economic development and gradually build a nuclear industry.

At a National Assembly session on May 15, lawmakers discussed the draft Law on Atomic Energy. During the session, Minister of Science and Technology Nguyen Manh Hung emphasized that nuclear power is considered both clean energy and a stable energy source.

According to global trends, nuclear energy is expected to account for 10-30% of a country’s total energy supply. Many nations see this as a strategic move to achieve energy independence, carbon neutrality, and technological repositioning.

Minister Hung stated that Vietnam aims to master nuclear energy technology to foster economic and social development, ultimately forming a national nuclear industry that includes nuclear power plants and research reactors for radiation applications. The plan also involves strengthening domestic capabilities in nuclear technology, equipment manufacturing, radiation monitoring, and safety assessment.

In the early phase of its localization strategy, Vietnam will focus on developing capabilities in manufacturing equipment for nuclear applications, radiation monitoring, and safety assessments. Later, it will advance toward localizing nuclear technology itself.

Regarding nuclear power plant construction, the draft law includes provisions for special mechanisms to expedite implementation, such as direct contracting, adoption of international and vendor standards, and allowances for appraisal and training expenses.

The draft law also dedicates a separate chapter to nuclear safety and security and another to nuclear power plants. It mandates continuous oversight by the national radiation and nuclear safety authority throughout the plant’s lifecycle and outlines incident response measures, along with the promotion of a safety and security culture.

Addressing concerns about nuclear safety, Minister Hung affirmed that to meet international standards - particularly those set by the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) - the Ministry of Science and Technology has consulted with the IAEA. The agency concluded that the draft’s regulations on radiation safety, nuclear security, and inspections meet IAEA principles.

The minister also outlined Vietnam’s comprehensive nuclear safety plan, covering site selection, pre-feasibility reporting, nuclear fuel import and disposal, and eventual plant decommissioning. Each stage will involve radiation safety evaluations to ensure compliance before construction or operation begins.

The government plans to actively promote peaceful applications of nuclear energy. It will classify radiation risks to humans and the environment to guide the responsible socialization of nuclear applications.

Additionally, the state will implement training and development programs to build a skilled nuclear energy workforce. There will be preferential policies to attract both domestic and international experts, along with incentives for those pursuing education and training in nuclear science and energy.  – Source: VNN –