Circular No. 16/2026/TT-BCT, detailing the implementation of certain provisions of the Law on Competition and Merit Recognition and Decree No. 152/2025/NĐ-CP of the Government for the Ministry of Industry and Trade

CIRCULAR

Detailed provisions for the implementation of certain articles of the Law on Competition and Merit Recognition and the Decree No. 152/2025/NĐ-CP dated June 14, 2025 of the Government concerning the Ministry of Commerce

Regarding

The Ministry of Commerce Based on

 Law on Competition and Merit Recognition dated June 15, 2022 Based on Decree No. 40/2025/NĐ-CP dated February 26, 2025 of the Government on the functions, tasks, powers, and organizational structure of the Ministry of Commerce as amended by Decree No. 109/2025/NĐ-CP dated May 20, 2025 of the Government on the functions, tasks, powers, and organizational structure of the Office of the Inspectorate General and Decree No. 193/2025/NĐ-CP dated July 2, 2025 of the Government on detailed provisions for certain articles and measures to implement the Law on Geology and Mineral Resources;;

Based on Decree No. 152/2025/NĐ-CP dated June 14, 2025 of the Government on delegation and authorization in the field of competition and merit recognition; detailed provisions for certain articles of the Law on Competition and Merit Recognition;

In accordance with the proposal of the Director General,

The Director General of the Ministry of Commerce promulgates this Circular to provide detailed provisions for the implementation of certain articles of the Law on Competition and Merit Recognition and Decree No. 152/2025/NĐ-CP dated June 14, 2025 of the Government concerning the Ministry of Commerce

PART I GENERAL PROVISIONS.

Article 1. Scope of application

This Circular provides detailed provisions for the implementation of paragraphs 4 of Article 24, paragraph 3 of Articles 26, 27, 28, paragraph 2 of Article 71, paragraph 6 of Article 74, paragraph 2 of Article 75 and paragraph 6 of Article 84 of the Law on Competition and Merit Recognition; provides contents delegated under paragraph 2 of Article 6 of Decree No. 152/2025/NĐ-CP dated June 14, 2025 of the Government on delegation and authorization in the field of competition and merit recognition; detailed provisions for certain articles of the Law on Competition and Merit Recognition (hereinafter referred to collectively as this Circular).

Article 2. Applicability

This Circular applies to collectives, civil servants, public officials, staff members, workers in agencies, units, enterprises under the Ministry of Commerce; households; domestic and foreign organizations and individuals who have made contributions to the construction and development of the Ministry of Commerce.

Article 3. Interpretation of terms

In this Circular, the following terms are understood as follows:

Agencies, units, enterprises under the Ministry include: Administrative public service units under the Ministry, Public sector units under the Ministry and Enterprises under the Ministry as stipulated in Decree of the Government on functions, tasks, powers, and organizational structure of the Ministry of Commerce and other documents.

2. "Small collectives" include: Units, enterprises constituting subordinate to or directly subordinate to agencies, units, enterprises under the Ministry as specified in paragraph 1 of this Article.

1. 3. "Commerce Ministry Organizational Unit" includes: Departments, Party Committee of the Ministry of Commerce, Office of the National Project Steering Committee for Energy Sector.

4. Agencies, units, enterprises with legal personality under the Ministry include: Office of the Ministry, Office of the Inter-Ministerial Steering Committee on International Economic Integration, National Competition Commission, Departments; Public sector units under the Ministry and Enterprises under the Ministry as stipulated in Decree of the Government on functions, tasks, powers, and organizational structure of the Ministry of Commerce and other documents.

3. "Khối Cơ quan Bộ Công Thương" bao gồm: Các Vụ, Đảng ủy Bộ Công Thương, Văn phòng Ban Chỉ đạo Nhà nước các dự án ngành năng lượng.

4. Các cơ quan, đơn vị, doanh nghiệp có tư cách pháp nhân thuộc Bộ bao gồm: Văn phòng Bộ, Văn phòng Ban chỉ đạo liên ngành Hội nhập quốc tế về kinh tế, Ủy ban Cạnh tranh quốc gia, Các Cục; Đơn vị sự nghiệp công lập thuộc Bộ và Doanh nghiệp thuộc Bộ được quy định trong Nghị định của Chính phủ quy định chức năng, nhiệm vụ, quyền hạn và cơ cấu tổ chức của Bộ Công Thương và các văn bản khác.

 Chapter II

OBJECTS, CRITERIA, FILE, PROCEDURE FOR REVIEWING AWARDS

COMPETITION HONOR TITLES, FORM OF RECOGNITION DEPENDENT ON AUTHORITY

RIGHTS OF THE MINISTRY AND ITS ORGANIZATIONS, UNITS, ENTERPRISES;

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF LEVEL OF TASK COMPLETION

FOR INDIVIDUALS, GROUPS

Article 4. Criteria and Objectives for Awarding the "Advanced Worker" Title

1. The "Advanced Worker" title is awarded annually to individuals who meet the criteria as specified in Clause 1 of Article 24 of the Law on Competition and Merit Promotion enacted in 2022.

2. The review for the "Advanced Worker" title for certain specific cases shall be conducted according to the provisions set forth in Clause 5 of Article 2 of Circular No. 15/2025/TT-BNV dated August 4, 2025 by the Minister of Labour, War Invalids and Social Affairs on measures to organize and guide the implementation of the Law on Competition and Merit Promotion and Decree No. 152/2025/NĐ-CP dated June 14, 2025 by the Government on delegation and authorization in the field of competition and merit promotion; detailed provisions and guidelines for implementing certain articles of the Law on Competition and Merit Promotion (hereinafter referred to collectively as Circular No. 15/2025/TT-BNV).

3. The "Advanced Worker" title shall not be awarded in any of the following cases:

a) Individuals who have been absent from work for a total period of three months or more during the year of merit recognition, except as provided in Clause 5 of Article 4 of Decree No. 152/2025/NĐ-CP dated June 14, 2025 by the Government on delegation and authorization in the field of competition and merit promotion; detailed provisions and guidelines for implementing certain articles of the Law on Competition and Merit Promotion (hereinafter referred to collectively as Decree No. 152/2025/NĐ-CP);

b) Individuals newly recruited within six months as specified in Point d, Clause 5 of Circular No. 15/2025/TT-BNV and individuals who have signed their first labor contract for a period of less than six months.

4. The objects eligible for the "Advanced Worker" title include: Individuals belonging to organizations, units, or enterprises under the Ministry as specified in Clause 1 of Article 3.

Article 5. Criteria and Objectives for Awarding the "Ministry of Industry and Trade Competition Flag"

1. The "Ministry of Industry and Trade Competition Flag" is awarded annually to groups leading the competition movement organized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade and achieving criteria as specified in Clause 1 of Article 26 of the Law on Competition and Merit Promotion enacted in 2022.

2. The "Ministry of Industry and Trade Competition Flag" is awarded to groups leading the competition movement according to a specific theme initiated by the Ministry of Industry and Trade, which has been ongoing for three years or more at the time of the review. The objects eligible under this clause are responsible for implementing the guidelines for summarizing and recognizing achievements as provided by the Ministry of Industry and Trade for each competition movement..

3. The groups eligible for the "Ministry of Industry and Trade Competition Flag" include:

a) Organizations, units, or enterprises under the Ministry as specified in Clause 1 of Article 3;

b) Vietnam Industrial and Commercial Union and Departments of Industry and Commerce in provinces and cities (hereinafter collectively referred to as Departments of Industry and Commerce);

c) Groups leading the competition movement according to a specific theme initiated by the Ministry of Industry and Trade, which has been ongoing for three years or more at the time of the review.

Article 6. Criteria and Objectives for Awarding the "Outstanding Labor Collective" Title

1. The "Outstanding Labor Collective" title is awarded annually to groups achieving criteria as specified in Clause 1 of Article 27 of the Law on Competition and Merit Promotion enacted in 2022.

2. The objects eligible for the "Outstanding Labor Collective" title include: Organizations, units, or enterprises under the Ministry as specified in Clauses 1 and 2 of Article 3.

Article 7. Standards and Objects for Awarding the Title of "Advanced Labor Collective"

1. The title of "Advanced Labor Collective" is awarded annually to a collective that meets the standards specified in Clause 1, Article 28 of the Law on Competition and Commendation enacted in 2022.

2. Objects for awarding the title of "Advanced Labor Collective" include: Agencies, units, enterprises under the Ministry as defined in Clauses 1 and 2, Article 3.

Article 8. Standards for Awarding or Posthumously Awarding Commendation Letters by the Minister of Industry and Trade

1. The commendation letters by the Minister of Industry and Trade are to be awarded or posthumously awarded to individuals who exemplarily comply with the Party's policies, State laws, and regulations and achieve one of the following standards:

a) Have outstanding achievements recognized in competition campaigns initiated or implemented by the Minister of Industry and Trade;

b) Achieve numerous accomplishments or sudden successes that have an impact on one of the industries or fields under the management scope of the Ministry of Industry and Trade;

c) Contribute to economic and social development, application of scientific and technological progress, social work, charity, and humanitarian activities in various industries and tasks managed by the Ministry of Industry and Trade according to legal provisions;

d) Individuals from the Ministry of Industry and Trade who have been awarded the title of "Model Base Worker" twice consecutively or have continuously completed their duties excellently for two years or more during which they have proposed two effective suggestions, or have had two scientific research projects, scientific plans, or technological achievements reviewed and applied effectively within their base;

d) Have a work history in units under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, contributing to the construction and development of the industry, and are awarded before retiring on pension;

e) Achieve numerous accomplishments in work with an impact within the Ministry of Industry and Trade that contribute to the construction and development of the industry during the anniversary (round year) of the establishment of the industry or unit;

g) Other cases as determined by the Minister of Industry and Trade.

2. The commendation letters by the Minister of Industry and Trade are to be awarded or posthumously awarded to entrepreneurs, intellectuals, scientists who exemplarily comply with the Party's policies, State laws, and regulations and achieve one of the standards specified in points a, b, and c of this Article or have accomplishments and contributions to the construction and development of the Ministry and industry.

3. The commendation letters by the Minister of Industry and Trade are to be awarded to collectives that exemplarily comply with the Party's policies, State laws, regulations, internally maintain unity, and achieve one of the following standards:

a) Have outstanding achievements recognized in competition campaigns initiated or implemented by the Minister of Industry and Trade;

b) Achieve sudden outstanding accomplishments with an impact on one of the industries or fields under the management scope of the Ministry of Industry and Trade;

c) Contribute to economic and social development, application of scientific and technological progress, social work, charity, and humanitarian activities in various industries and tasks managed by the Ministry of Industry and Trade according to legal provisions;

d) Have continuously completed their duties excellently for two years or more twice consecutively or have been awarded the title of "Advanced Labor Collective" twice consecutively, effectively implement grassroots democracy, organize well-organized competition campaigns; take care of the material and spiritual life in the collective; practice thrift, prevent waste; combat corruption and negative phenomena;

d) Achieve numerous accomplishments in work with an impact within the Ministry of Industry and Trade that contribute to the construction and development of the industry during the anniversary (round year) of the establishment of the industry or unit;

e) Other cases as determined by the Minister of Industry and Trade.

4. The commendation letters by the Minister of Industry and Trade are to be awarded to families under his management who exemplarily comply with the Party's policies, State laws, regulations, and have numerous contributions to the construction and development of the industry.

5. The commendation letters by the Minister of Industry and Trade are to be awarded to Vietnamese citizens residing abroad; foreign individuals or collectives who have accomplishments and contributions to the construction and development of the Ministry and industry.

Article 9. Criteria and Recipients for Commendation The term "For the Development of Vietnam's Industry and Trade" Commemorative Medal (Model No. 1.7 in Appendix I attached to the Circular) is a form of commendation by the Minister of Industry and Trade to recognize the contributions of individuals who have made significant contributions to the development of industry and trade, meeting one of the following criteria:

1. For individuals within the industry and trade sector:

a) Individuals currently or previously working at agencies, units, enterprises under the Ministry, or in sectors of the industry and trade with a minimum of 20 years for males, 15 years for females; 10 years for those directly engaged in hazardous or dangerous professions as of the date of nomination.

b) Cases where seniority is not considered when awarding: Individuals who have received the title of Labor Hero; National Model Worker; People's Teacher, Excellent People's Teacher, People's Doctor, and Excellent People's Doctor working within the industry and trade sector; People's Artist, Excellent People's Artist in the field of handicrafts; Individuals with national-level invention or discovery, scientific research achievements applied in the industry and trade.

2. For individuals outside the industry and trade sector:

a) Individuals who have made significant contributions to the development of the industry and trade through their national-level invention or discovery applied in the industry and trade.

b) Leaders of agencies, units, enterprises, organizations, associations, at both central and local levels, who have made substantial contributions to the development of the industry and trade as recommended by relevant agencies, units, enterprises, and industrial trade departments.

c) Vietnamese citizens abroad who have made significant contributions to the development of the industry and trade.

d) Individuals from foreign countries who have contributed to building, consolidating, and developing external relations for the industry and trade or provided spiritual and material support for the development of the industry and trade.

3. Other cases as determined by the Minister of Industry and Trade.

4. The "For the Development of Vietnam's Industry and Trade" Commemorative Medal shall not be awarded to individuals who are subject to disciplinary action but have not yet completed the disciplinary period, with the disciplinary period not being counted in the consideration for the award.

5. Cases not eligible for the Commemorative Medal:

a) Individuals who have already received one of the following forms of commendation: "For the Development of Vietnam's Industry," "For the Development of Trade," or "For the Development of Vietnam's Industry and Trade" Commemorative Medals.

b) Individuals who have left their post without authorization.

Article 10. Criteria for Awarding Certificates of Commendation

Heads of agencies, units, enterprises with legal personality under the Ministry may award certificates of commendation to individuals, groups, or households according to the following criteria:

1. Individuals who exemplify good compliance with Party policies and State laws and regulations and meet one of the following criteria:

a) Having outstanding achievements recognized in various competition campaigns initiated or implemented by the head of the agency, unit, or enterprise;

b) Achieving numerous accomplishments or sudden successes that have significant impact within the scope managed by the agency, unit, or enterprise;

c) Excellently completing assigned tasks; maintaining high moral standards; fostering internal unity; frequently enhancing professional knowledge and skills through study;

d) Making contributions to the development of the agency, unit, or enterprise that are recognized on occasions such as the anniversary or traditional day (anniversary year).

2. Groups who exemplify good compliance with Party policies and State laws and regulations, maintaining internal unity and meeting one of the following criteria:

a) Having outstanding achievements recognized in various competition campaigns initiated or implemented by the head of the agency, unit, or enterprise;

b) Achieving numerous accomplishments or sudden successes that have significant impact within the scope managed by the agency, unit, or enterprise;

c) Excellently completing assigned tasks; having no complaints or accusations; effectively implementing grassroots democracy; caring for the material and spiritual life of the group; practicing thrift and combating waste; fully implementing policies and regulations concerning members of the group;

d) Making exemplary achievements during the process of building and developing the agency, unit, or enterprise that are recognized on occasions such as the anniversary or traditional day (anniversary year).

3. Households who exemplify good compliance with Party policies and State laws and regulations, making significant contributions to their localities and society in areas managed by the agency, unit, or enterprise.

4. Vietnamese citizens residing abroad; individuals or groups from foreign countries who have made achievements and contributions to the construction and development of the agency, unit, or enterprise.

4. Cá nhân, tập thể người Việt Nam định cư ở nước ngoài; cá nhân, tập thể người nước ngoài có thành tích, đóng góp trong sự nghiệp xây dựng và phát triển của cơ quan, đơn vị, doanh nghiệp.

Article 11. General Provisions on Files and Procedures for Commendation within the Authority of the Minister

1. The commendation file must ensure timely submission, proper components, and content as prescribed. Individuals, collectives, and households are responsible for the accuracy in reporting achievements proposed for commendation. Heads of agencies, units, and enterprises under the Ministry shall be responsible for the accuracy of the commendation files concerning individuals, collectives, and households before submitting them to the competent authority for commendation.

2. The commendation file for cases specified at Point b, c, and e in Clause 1, Article 8; Points b, c, and d in Clause 3, Article 8 must have the unified opinion of the Department Head responsible before being sent to the Permanent Secretariat of the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Committee.

3. The establishment of commendation files for Department Heads is led by the Personnel Department, with cooperation from the Ministry's Office and relevant units.

4. The receipt and establishment of files for awarding the Ministry's Banner of Merit and Minister's Commendation to individuals and collectives in provinces and cities are handled by the Commerce Departments or their advisory bodies.

5. For individuals who have retired, where the agency, unit, or enterprise has dissolved or merged, the receiving agency, unit, or enterprise is responsible for reviewing and recommending commendations; for retired (or deceased) individuals, the commendation file was submitted to the competent authority by their former agency, unit, or enterprise before retirement (or death).

6. Commendations for Vietnamese nationals residing abroad and foreign individuals are conducted in accordance with the provisions of the Law on Competition and Commendation 2022 and related documents concerning foreign commendations.

7. Seeking opinions from relevant agencies before submitting to the Minister is handled by the Permanent Secretariat of the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Committee.

In cases where responses have not been received within the timeframe specified in the Commerce Department's request for comments, or if there are disagreements on commendations or differing opinions, the Personnel Department compiles and reports to the Minister for examination and decision-making.

Within 10 working days from receipt of all relevant agency comments, the Personnel Department compiles and submits the file for examination and commendation in accordance with regulations.

8. Collectives, units, enterprises, or lower-level competition and commendation committees must conduct a vote when deliberating on the titles "Ministry's Hero of Merit," "Hero of Merit at the Base Level," and "Ministry's Banner of Merit."

For individuals and collectives proposed for the title "Hero of Merit at the Base Level" or "Ministry's Banner of Merit," the approval rate from the collective, unit, enterprise, or lower-level competition and commendation committee must be 80% or more based on the total number of members. For individuals proposed for the title "Ministry's Hero of Merit," the approval rate must be 90% or more based on the total number of members.

The results and approval rates from the collective, unit, enterprise, or lower-level competition and commendation committee must be reflected in the inspection report and commendation review minutes.

9. Time for submitting files for commendations

a) For meritorious service commendations: Based on the Ministry's annual summary work plan or direct instructions from the Minister, the Permanent Secretariat of the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Committee shall draft guidelines for the submission time of meritorious service commendation files each year.

b) For interim and final summaries of competition and commendation campaigns initiated by the Prime Minister or the Minister of Commerce: Follow specific instructions provided for each campaign.

c) For outstanding achievements or sudden outstanding achievements: Heads of agencies, units, and enterprises under the Ministry shall prepare the commendation file immediately after an individual or collective achieves such accomplishments and send it to the Permanent Secretariat of the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Committee.

d) For files submitted for commendations that will be awarded at conferences, commemorative events, traditional days, or organizational meetings: The commendation file must be sent to the Permanent Secretariat of the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Committee no later than 25 working days before the scheduled date of the conference, commemorative event, traditional day, or organizational meeting.

d) For commendations for individuals prior to retirement: Within 10 days from the decision on retirement to receive social insurance benefits, the agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry shall prepare the commendation file and submit it to the Permanent Secretariat of the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Committee for compilation and submission to the Minister for consideration and awarding a Commendation.

Article 12. Files and Procedures for Proposing Commendations and Meritorious Titles under the Authority of the Minister of Industry and Trade and Heads of Agencies, Units, and Enterprises with Legal Person Status within the Ministry cơ quan, đơn vị, doanh nghiệp có tư cách pháp nhân thuộc The Ministry

1. Agencies, units, and enterprises under the Ministry shall prepare files to be submitted to competent authorities for examination and decision on commendations such as "Hero of Labor in the Ministry of Industry and Trade," "Hero of Labor at the Grassroots Level," "Advanced Worker," "Flag of Honor of the Ministry of Industry and Trade," "Outstanding Collective of Workers," and "Advanced Collective."

2. The advisory body for labor competitions and commendations within agencies, units, and enterprises with legal person status under the Ministry shall compile and review files, report to the grassroots Labor Competition and Commendation Committee; submit commendations such as "Hero of Labor at the Grassroots Level," "Advanced Worker," "Advanced Collective" and "Commendation" according to the authority stipulated in Clause 1 of Article 80 of the Law on Labor Competitions and Commendations (2022) and submit to the Minister for examination and decision-making regarding commendations within the authority as specified in Clause 2 of Article 79 of the same law.

3. Based on the results of evaluations: "Hero of Labor in the Ministry of Industry and Trade" and "Outstanding Collective" by the grassroots Labor Competition and Commendation Committee; "Flag of Honor of the Ministry of Industry and Trade" by the Block or Cluster of Competitions organized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade; individual and collective commendations for units without legal person status under the Ministry, the Personnel Department compiles, reviews, reports to the Labor Competition and Commendation Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and submits to the Minister for examination and decision.

4. The files and procedures for proposing "Flag of Honor of the Ministry of Industry and Trade" to collective units leading in competition shall be carried out according to specific guidelines for each competition.

Article 13. Files and Procedures for Proposing Commendations by the Minister of Industry and Trade Bộ Công Thương

1. Files and procedures for commendations for outstanding achievements or thematic competitions

Commendations for outstanding achievements or thematic competitions must be timely, in line with the leadership instructions from the Ministry regarding timing, based on the principle of commending as soon as achievements are made, specifically:

a) Agencies, units, and enterprises under the Ministry shall prepare files based on individual or collective achievements or guidelines for summarizing thematic competitions provided by the Standing Committee of the Labor Competition and Commendation Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Trade. They should seek approval from the responsible leadership of the Ministry; then submit these files to the Standing Committee of the Labor Competition and Commendation Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

The Personnel Department compiles, reviews the file, reports, seeks opinions from the Labor Competition and Commendation Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and submits for decision by the Minister.

2. Files and procedures for commendations on occasions such as the establishment or anniversary (round years) of agencies, units, and enterprises under the Ministry

a) Heads of agencies, units, and enterprises under the Ministry propose and submit to the Minister for examination and decision-making regarding commendations for individuals or collectives with outstanding achievements and significant contributions during the development process.

The advisory body responsible for labor competitions and commendations shall advise heads of agencies, units, and enterprises under the Ministry to coordinate with the Standing Committee of the Labor Competition and Commendation Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Trade in reporting and seeking approval from the responsible leadership of the Ministry regarding commendations. This includes specifying the type of commendation, recipients, quantity, and funding sources.

The Personnel Department (Standing Committee of the Labor Competition and Commendation Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Trade) compiles, reviews the file, reports, seeks opinions from the Labor Competition and Commendation Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and submits for decision by the Minister.

b) Heads of agencies, units, and enterprises under the Ministry, provincial Departments of Industry and Trade submit to the Minister of Industry and Trade for examination and awarding of commendations from the Minister of Industry and Trade to individuals or organizations in the field of industry and trade that have contributed to the development of the industry and local enterprise on occasions such as anniversaries (round years).

The advisory body responsible for labor competitions and commendations advises heads of agencies, units, and enterprises under the Ministry, provincial Departments of Industry and Trade to coordinate with the Standing Committee of the Labor Competition and Commendation Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Trade in reporting and seeking approval from the responsible leadership of the Ministry regarding commendations. This includes specifying the type of commendation, recipients, quantity, and funding sources.

The Personnel Department (Standing Committee of the Labor Competition and Commendation Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Trade) compiles, reviews the file, reports, seeks opinions from the Labor Competition and Commendation Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Trade, and submits for decision by the Minister.

3. Files and procedures for commendations to individuals or collectives with achievements and contributions in the process of cooperation in implementing tasks assigned by the Ministry of Industry and Trade

a) Based on the results of cooperation during the implementation of tasks assigned by the Ministry of Industry and Trade, heads of agencies, units, and enterprises under the Ministry proactively propose commendations for individuals or collectives from other ministries, departments, provinces, cities, or within their own unit that have made achievements and directly cooperated in implementing tasks. They report to the responsible leadership of the Ministry; submit a proposal for approval before preparing files for commendation submission to the Standing Committee of the Labor Competition and Commendation Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

b) Based on proposals from agencies, units, and enterprises under the Ministry, in accordance with instructions from the Minister, the Personnel Department collaborates with relevant departments to implement the nomination and commendation procedures as per regulations.

4. Files and procedures for commendations to individuals or collectives from other enterprises or organizations outside the management scope but have made contributions to the field managed by the Ministry of Industry and Trade

a) Based on the application for commendation file (including: content of achievements proposed for commendation; source of funds for individual and collective commendations; document seeking opinions from relevant units (if any)) submitted by the head of the agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry to the Standing Committee of the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Board, accompanied by a summary of review and leadership approval.

b) The Personnel Department solicits opinions from relevant agencies, units, and seeks the opinion of the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Board, compiles, and submits for examination and decision-making to the Minister.

5. Application and procedures for commendation of individuals prior to retirement

a) The agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry employing civil servants, public officials, staff members, and workers, based on their work history and in accordance with regulations, prepares an application for commendation and sends it to the Standing Committee of the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Board for the commendation process.

b) The Personnel Department compiles, reviews the file, seeks the opinion of the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Board, submits a report for examination and decision-making by the Minister.

6. Application and procedures for annual commendation of achievements

a) Based on evaluation results, quality assessment, and task completion status of individuals and teams; based on the results of assessing, recognizing the effectiveness of implementation, replicability potential of innovations; impact scope of scientific research projects, science and technology programs, and scientific and technological works, the head of the agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry convenes a meeting to evaluate commendation titles and forms of recognition for individuals and teams within their jurisdiction. They prepare an application for commendation and send it to the Standing Committee of the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Board.

b) Based on the criteria for commendation assessment, the Personnel Department compiles a report, reviews the commendation process; proposes convening a meeting of the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Board to evaluate commendations.

c) Based on the results of the commendation evaluation by the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Board, the Personnel Department compiles a report for examination and decision-making by the Minister.

7. Application and procedures for commendation of the Commerce Ministry's Blocks and Clusters

a) Based on the results of the evaluation conducted by the Blocks and Clusters under the Commerce Ministry; the Block or Cluster compiles an application for commendation for leading members and sends it to the Standing Committee of the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Board.

b) Based on the criteria for commendation assessment, the Personnel Department reviews.

c) The Personnel Department compiles a report, submits it to the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Board, and presents it to the Minister for examination and decision-making.

8. Application and procedures for commendation of other cases

a) Heads of agencies, units, or enterprises under the Ministry with advisory functions on matters within the scope of management by the Commerce Ministry are responsible for compiling and reviewing applications for commendation related to their specialized fields; report to the Deputy Minister in charge, seek approval from the Minister, and prepare an application for commendation sent to the Standing Committee of the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Board.

The memorandum requesting commendation must include: opinions of the unit on achievements within its functional and advisory responsibilities; content of achievements proposed for commendation; source of funds for individual and collective commendations; document seeking opinions from units under the Commerce Ministry (if any).

b) The Personnel Department solicits opinions from relevant units, seeks the opinion of the Ministry's Competition and Commendation Board, compiles, and submits for examination and decision-making to the Minister.

Article 14. Files and Procedures for Proposing the "For the Development of Vietnam's Industry and Trade" Commemorative Medal

1. Based on the provisions regarding conditions and criteria for awarding the commemorative medal, the agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry shall prepare a file proposing an honor and submit it to the Standing Committee of the Ministry's Competition and Merit Council.

2. The Personnel Department compiles and reviews the file; reports and seeks the opinion of the Ministry's Competition and Merit Council, then submits it to the Minister for examination and decision-making.

3. Units operating in the Industry and Trade sector propose awarding the Commemorative Medal (for individuals within their management scope who have contributed to the construction and development of the Industry and Trade sector) through the agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry.

4. For enterprises under Ministries and Departments proposing awards for individuals, submit via the relevant Ministries and Departments directly managing staffing, establishment, and salary funds. Ministries and Departments propose to the Ministry of Industry and Trade awarding Commemorative Medals to individuals from these enterprises.

Article 15. Quantity, Composition of Files; Time for Notifying the Results of Review, Honor Recognition for Merit Titles and Forms of Honors within the Authority of the Minister and Heads of Agencies, Units, Enterprises with Legal Person Status under the Ministry 1. Quantity of Files

The quantity of files proposed for awarding merit titles and forms of honors within the authority of the Minister and heads of agencies, units, enterprises with legal person status under the Ministry consists of one original paper copy (original) and an electronic version of the honor file, excluding state secrets documents.

2. Composition of Files

a) Proposal for Awarding Merit Titles and Forms of Honors (Model No. 1.1 Appendix I issued with this Circular).

b) Report on Achievements of the Individual Proposed for Honor (Models Nos. 1.2, 1.3, 1.4, 1.5 Appendix I issued with this Circular).

c) Minutes of Merit Evaluation or Minutes of Honors Review:

Minutes of Merit Evaluation of a collective body from the Ministry's agency, unit, or enterprise in cases proposing "Outstanding Labor Collective," "Advanced Labor Collective," and "Advanced Worker."

Minutes of Merit Evaluation and voting results of a collective body from the Ministry's agency, unit, or enterprise or from the Ministry's Competition and Merit Council at various levels for proposals on "Base-level Hero of Merit," "Hero of Merit of the Ministry of Industry and Trade," and "Flag of Merit of the Ministry of Industry and Trade."

Minutes of Evaluation by a Block or Cluster of Competitions organized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade in cases proposing "Flag of Merit of the Ministry of Industry and Trade."

Minutes of Honors Review of a collective body from the Ministry's agency, unit, or enterprise or from the Ministry's Competition and Merit Council for proposals on Ministerial Commendation, Certificate of Merit.

Minutes of Honors Review by a Block or Cluster of Competitions organized by the Ministry of Industry and Trade in cases proposing Ministerial Commendation.

d) Decision or confirmation document regarding effective application of an innovation with potential for replication within the Ministry of Industry and Trade (Model No. 1.8 Appendix I issued with this Circular), or scientific research, project proposal, and scientific and technological achievement documents that have been validated and effectively applied, having a scope of influence in the Ministry of Industry and Trade, for cases proposing "Hero of Merit of the Ministry of Industry and Trade."

Decision or confirmation document from an agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry with authority regarding innovations or scientific research, project proposals, and scientific and technological achievements for cases proposing "Base-level Hero of Merit," Ministerial Commendation, Certificate of Merit where criteria relate to innovations, scientific research, project proposals, and scientific and technological achievements.

3. Time for Notifying the Results of Review, Honor Recognition

a) For merit titles and forms of honors within the authority of the Minister of Industry and Trade

For cases meeting the conditions and criteria for honor according to regulations, the Personnel Department implements the procedure for the Minister's examination and decision-making or submits it to the competent authority for decision-making and notifies the agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry to submit honors within 25 working days from the date of receiving a complete file as per regulations.

For cases not meeting the conditions and criteria, within 10 working days from the date of receiving a complete file proposing honor, the Personnel Department notifies the agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry to submit honors.

b) For merit titles and forms of honors within the authority of heads of agencies, units, enterprises with legal person status under the Ministry

For cases meeting the conditions and criteria for honor according to regulations, the advisory department on competition and merit implements the procedure for the head's examination and decision-making or submits it to the competent authority for decision-making and notifies the unit to submit honors within 15 working days from the date of receiving a complete file as per regulations.

For cases not meeting the conditions and criteria, within 7 working days from the date of receiving a complete file proposing honor, the advisory department on competition and merit notifies the unit to submit honors.

Đối với các trường hợp không đủ điều kiện, tiêu chuẩn, trong thời gian 07 ngày làm việc kể từ ngày nhận đủ hồ sơ đề nghị khen thưởng, bộ phận tham mưu công tác thi đua, khen thưởng thông báo cho đơn vị trình khen.

Article 16. Regulations on Recognizing the Degree of Task Completion for Individuals and Collectives Under the Management of the Ministry of Industry and Trade

The recognition of the degree of task completion for individuals, collectives, agencies, units, and enterprises under the management of the ministry is carried out in accordance with the provisions of the Party, national laws, and the regulations of the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

 

Chapter III

PROCEDURES FOR EXCHANGE AND REPLACEMENT OF HONORABLE AWARDS;

PROCEDURES FOR CANCELLATION OF DECISIONS BESTOWING COMPETITION TITLES AND FORMS OF HONORARY RECOGNITION, WHICH ARE THE AUTHORITY OF THE MINISTRY AND ITS AGENCIES AND ENTERPRISES

Article 17. Procedures for Exchange and Replacement of Honorable Awards

1. Individuals, collectives, or households who wish to exchange or replace an honorary award shall submit a dossier to the Standing Committee of the Ministry's Competition and Merit Council. The dossier consists of one copy in paper form (original), including:

a) A request for exchange or replacement document submitted by a collective or a personal or household request when the awarded item is damaged, no longer usable, or lost due to objective reasons such as natural disasters, floods, fires, or incorrect printing (Model No. 2.1, Model No. 2.2, and Model No. 2.3 in Appendix II issued with this Circular);

b) The awarded item for exchange (for cases requesting an exchange).

2. The Personnel Department shall compare the dossier against the stored records, confirm, summarize, report to the Standing Committee of the Ministry's Competition and Merit Council for examination and decision on exchanging or replacing the honorary award within fifteen days from the date of receipt of the request for exchange or replacement submitted by individuals, collectives, or households.

Honorable awards exchanged or replaced are limited to the "Industrial and Commercial Hero" badge, the "Ministry of Industry and Trade Competition Banner," the "For the Development of the Industrial and Commercial Sector in Vietnam" commendation medal, and certificates for various forms of honorary recognition and competition titles.

The exchanged or replaced items shall be procured by the Personnel Department according to the following specifications:

The "For the Development of the Industrial and Commercial Sector in Vietnam" commendation medal model, the "Ministry of Industry and Trade Competition Banner" model, and the "Industrial and Commercial Hero" badge model are implemented in accordance with the regulations of the Government.

The exchanged or replaced certificate models shall be printed by leaders who have completed their terms based on the design at the time of individual, collective, or household recognition. The content of achievements is written according to the decision of recognition; the lower right corner of the certificate has a pre-printed stamp and signature of the person with authority to recognize at that time (the stamp and signature are reproduced from the original stamp and signature on previously awarded certificates, decisions of recognition, introduction text for Ministry of Industry and Trade signatures, and regulations on stamp models by the Ministry of Public Security); the lower left corner of the certificate states "Decision of Recognition No., date, month, year" and "Certificate of Replacement No.: .../GCN-BCT. Individuals, collectives, or households receiving an exchanged or replaced certificate will also receive a Certificate of Exchange and Replacement (Model No. 2.4 in Appendix II issued with this Circular).

The exchanged or replaced certificate models shall be signed by current leaders according to the existing model.

3. The Personnel Department is responsible for disposing, handling, or destroying awarded items recovered under exchange regulations as per established procedures.

Article 18. Files and Procedures for Cancellation of Commendation Decisions and Forms of Rewards Belonging to the Authority of the Minister and Heads of Agencies, Units, and Enterprises with Legal Person Status under the Ministry cơ quan, đơn vị, doanh nghiệp 1. Individuals, groups, or households who have committed acts as specified in Clause 2, Article 93 of the Law on Commendation and Rewards 2022 shall have their commendation decisions and forms of rewards canceled and any awarded items or bonuses returned.

2. Based on the conclusion by an authority with jurisdiction determining that individuals, groups, or households have committed acts in violation as specified in Clause 2, Article 93 of the Law on Commendation and Rewards 2022, agencies, units, enterprises under the Ministry that have been granted commendations are responsible for requesting the competent authority to issue a decision canceling the commendation decisions and forms of rewards and returning any awarded items or bonuses.

3. The file requesting cancellation of commendation decisions and forms of rewards consists of one set (original) including:

a) A memorandum from the agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry requesting the return of commendation awards for individuals, groups, or households;

b) A summary report from the agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry directly submitting commendations regarding reasons for presenting to the competent authority the cancellation of commendation decisions and forms of rewards (accompanied by a Decision on Commendation).

4. The Personnel Department is responsible for compiling the file, submitting it to the Minister for examination and decision-making on canceling commendation awards and forms of rewards within the Ministry's jurisdiction.

5. The deadline for compiling and presenting files to the competent authority for examination and cancellation of commendation awards and forms of rewards is ten working days from the date all required files are received.

The advisory department responsible for implementing commendation activities at agencies, units, and enterprises with legal person status under the Ministry is responsible for urging individuals, groups, or households to return awarded items and bonuses within the stipulated period and organizing the recovery of bonus funds according to regulations; any recovered bonus funds are to be remitted to the state budget or the commendation and reward fund as per regulations.

Article 19. Recovery of Commendation Awards and Bonus Funds for Commendation Decisions and Forms of Rewards Belonging to the Authority of the Minister and Heads of Agencies, Units, and Enterprises under the Ministry

Article 19. Recovery of Honorary Awards and Incentive Payments in Connection with Commendatory Titles and Forms of Commendation is within the Authority of the Minister and Heads of Departments, Units, and Enterprises under the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

1. Within fifteen working days from receiving the decision canceling commendation decisions from the Minister and heads of agencies, units, and enterprises under the Ministry, individuals, groups, or households are responsible for returning all awarded items and bonus funds to the agency, unit, or enterprise that granted the commendations and disbursed the bonuses.

2. The Personnel Department and the advisory department implementing commendation activities at agencies, units, and enterprises under the Ministry are responsible for urging individuals, groups, or households to return awarded items within the stipulated period and organizing the recovery of bonus funds according to regulations; any recovered bonus funds are to be remitted to the state budget or the commendation and reward fund as per regulations.

 

Chapter IV

ORGANIZATION AND OPERATIONS OF THE COMMERCE COMPETITION AND REWARD COMMITTEE AT ALL LEVELS AND THE SUGGESTION COMMITTEE

Article 20. Organization of the Competition and Reward Committee at All Levels Belonging to the Ministry of Commerce

1. The Competition and Reward Committee at all levels belonging to the Ministry of Commerce includes: a) The Competition and Reward Committee of the Ministry of Commerce;

b) Base-level Competition and Reward Committees.

2. The Competition and Reward Committee of the Ministry of Commerce

a) The Competition and Reward Committee of the Ministry of Commerce is established by the Minister of Commerce, responsible for advising and consulting with the Minister on competition and reward work at the ministry and commerce sector.

b) The composition of the Competition and Reward Committee of the Ministry of Commerce includes: Chairperson, Deputy Chairpersons, and Members of the Committee.

The Chairperson of the Competition and Reward Committee of the Ministry of Commerce is the Minister of Commerce; Deputy Chairpersons include Deputy Ministers, Directors of the Personnel Department; Members of the Committee are determined by the Minister.

c) The Office of the Personnel Department serves as the permanent secretariat of the Competition and Reward Committee of the Ministry of Commerce.

3. Base-level Competition and Reward Committees

a) Heads of agencies, units, enterprises with legal personality under the Ministry issue decisions to establish the Competition and Reward Committee of their unit.

For units specified in paragraph 3 of Article 3 that are awarded, approval is given by the leadership of the unit together with the representative from the party committee at the same level for submission to the Competition and Reward Committee of the Ministry of Commerce.

b) The composition of base-level Competition and Reward Committees includes:

- The Chairperson of the base-level Competition and Reward Committee is the head of the agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry;

- The person in charge who assists the head of the agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry in competition and reward work serves as the permanent deputy chairperson or a regular member; other Deputy Chairpersons and Members are determined by the head of the agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry;

- The Secretary of the base-level Competition and Reward Committee is a civil servant or staff member who advises on and implements competition and reward work for the agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry.

c) The advisory body that implements competition and reward work serves as the permanent secretariat of the base-level Competition and Reward Committee.

Article 21. Operations of the Competition and Reward Committee at the Ministry of Commerce and Base-level Competition and Reward Committees

1. The Competition and Reward Committee operates on a collective basis with individual responsibility; meetings are organized as required by competition and reward work.

2. A quorum for the Competition and Reward Committee is achieved when at least two-thirds of its members attend.

3. At each session of the Competition and Reward Committee, if an ordinary member cannot attend, they must appoint a substitute to ensure continuity and decision-making authority over matters related to their area of responsibility; opinions expressed by substitutes are considered as those of the ordinary members of the Competition and Reward Committee. Substitutes are responsible for any discussions and decisions made at the meeting; they may vote on merit evaluations and rewards and participate in deliberations of the Competition and Reward Committee; they must report back to the ordinary member of the Competition and Reward Committee about the content and results of the meeting.

4. Merit evaluation for awards is conducted through a voting process or ballot. Ballots are used for evaluating national-level merit awards, "Commerce Flag of Honor," "Outstanding Commerce Warrior," "Base-Level Outstanding Commerce Warrior," and other cases as decided by the Chairperson of the Competition and Reward Committee.

In cases where an individual or group exceeds the reward ratio but still meets the criteria, the highest votes are selected; in case of a tie, the decision is made through voting or ballot by the Chairperson of the Competition and Reward Committee.

5. Depending on the agenda, the Chairperson of the Competition and Reward Committee may decide to invite additional heads of relevant agencies to attend the meeting. Invited participants may express opinions but do not have voting rights.

6. Ordinary members of the Competition and Reward Committee serve in a part-time capacity.

7. In cases where meetings of the Competition and Reward Committee are not organized, the permanent secretariat is responsible for sending documents, seeking input from each ordinary member of the Competition and Reward Committee; compiling and reporting to the Chairperson of the Competition and Reward Committee for review and decision-making.

8. The Competition and Reward Committee uses the seal of the agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry.

9. The Competition and Reward Committee at the Ministry of Commerce is subject to guidance, supervision, and inspection on competition and reward work by the Central Competition and Reward Committee. Base-level Competition and Reward Committees cooperate with each other in implementing tasks related to competition and reward and are also subject to guidance, supervision, and inspection by the Competition and Reward Committee at the Ministry of Commerce.

8. The Commendation and Reward Committee may use the seal of departments, units, and enterprises under the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

9. The Commendation and Reward Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Trade shall be subject to the guidance, supervision, and inspection by the Central Commendation and Reward Committee in matters related to commendatory work. Lower-level Commendation and Reward Committees shall cooperate with each other in implementing tasks related to commendatory work and shall also be subject to the guidance, supervision, and inspection by the Commendation and Reward Committee of the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Article 22. Innovation Council of the Ministry of Industry and Trade

1. The Innovation Council of the Ministry of Industry and Trade is an institution established by the Minister of Industry and Trade to assist the Minister in recognizing the effectiveness and scalability of innovations as a basis for awarding commendations and forms of recognition.

2. The composition of the Innovation Council of the Ministry of Industry and Trade includes:

a) The Chairman of the Innovation Council is the Deputy Minister responsible for the Office of Innovation, Green Transformation, and Industrial Promotion;

b) The Vice-Chairman consists of: Director of the Office of Innovation, Green Transformation, and Industrial Promotion, and the Director of the Office of Innovation, Green Transformation, and Industrial Promotion;

c) Members are determined by the Minister of Industry and Trade.

3. The Director of the Office of Innovation, Green Transformation, and Industrial Promotion is the permanent body of the Innovation Council of the Ministry of Industry and Trade with the duty to review the files of the grassroots Innovation Councils and confirm innovations (Model No. 1.8 in Appendix I issued along with this Circular).

4. The Innovation Council of the Ministry of Industry and Trade operates according to the organizational and operational regulations promulgated by the Minister of Industry and Trade. A meeting of the Innovation Council of the Ministry of Industry and Trade is convened when at least two-thirds of the council members are present, either in person or online. The meeting is chaired by the Chairman of the Council or a Vice-Chairman authorized to preside.

5. The funding for the operations of the Innovation Council is allocated from the national budget provided to the Ministry of Industry and Trade or other funds as prescribed by law, with actual disbursement and expenditure in accordance with such regulations.

Article 23. Grassroots Innovation Council

1. The grassroots Innovation Council has the task of reviewing and recognizing grassroots innovations; examining and submitting to higher authorities for recognition of the effectiveness and scalability of departmental and national-level innovations as a basis for awarding commendations and forms of recognition.

2. The head of the agency, unit, or enterprise with legal personality under the Ministry issues a decision establishing the grassroots Innovation Council of the agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry.

3. The composition of the grassroots Innovation Council includes: Chairman, Vice-Chairman, Secretary, and members. The council operates according to the activity regulations promulgated by the head of the agency, unit, or enterprise under the Ministry.

4. For units specified in paragraph 3 of Article 3: Unit leaders together with party committee representatives review, unify, recognize grassroots innovations; examine and submit to higher authorities for recognition of the effectiveness and scalability of departmental and national-level innovations as a basis for awarding commendations and forms of recognition.

 

Chapter V

IMPLEMENTATION ORGANIZATION

Article 24. Effective Date

1. This Circular takes effect from March 31, 2026.

2. The Circular No. 43/2024/TT-BCT dated December 31, 2024 of the Minister of Industry and Trade, which detailed the implementation of certain provisions of the Law on Commendation and Reward and regulations for the Innovation Council in the industry sector, ceases to have effect from the date this Circular takes effect.

3. In case any legal documents referred to in this Circular are amended, supplemented, or replaced, they shall be applied according to newly issued documents.

Article 25. Transitional Provisions

Files submitted to the Ministry of Industry and Trade (as per the receipt date) before the effective date of this Circular continue to be processed in accordance with the provisions of Circular No. 43/2024/TT-BCT dated December 31, 2024 of the Minister of Industry and Trade, which detailed the implementation of certain provisions of the Law on Commendation and Reward and regulations for the Innovation Council in the industry sector.

Article 26. Implementation

1. The Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Industry and Trade shall guide, supervise, inspect, and urge the agencies, units, and enterprises under the Ministry of Industry and Trade in the implementation of this Circular; based on the practical situation of the annual competition and excellence campaign, study and propose the number and ratio of commendations to be submitted for consideration and decision by the Minister of the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

2. The heads of agencies, units, and enterprises under the Ministry shall organize the implementation of this Circular.

3. During the implementation process, if any difficulties arise, it is requested that the agencies, units, enterprises, and individuals promptly report in writing to the Ministry of Industry and Trade (through the Personnel Department) for compilation, consideration, revision, and supplementation as appropriate.