In the second quarter of 2026, the IAEA will send the official report to the Government of Vietnam after completing the necessary procedures.

A mission from the International Atomic Energy Agency
(IAEA) has identified two “good practices” in Vietnam that could
serve as a model for other countries developing nuclear power.

The mission also
acknowledged that Vietnam is approaching its nuclear power program
methodically, in accordance with international standards, demonstrating a
determination for responsible and effective implementation.

During nearly two weeks of working in Vietnam from December
1 to 11, IAEA experts on the Integrated Nuclear Infrastructure Review (INIR) mission engaged in direct exchanges and discussions with representatives of
ministries, sectors, and enterprises to objectively and comprehensively review,
examine, and assess all 19 areas of nuclear power infrastructure.

At the closing session on December 11, the INIR
mission concluded that Vietnam has made significant strides to restart and
accelerate the progress of the Ninh Thuan Nuclear Power Plant Project as well
as the development of necessary infrastructure.

Many solutions and decisions have been adopted at all
levels, including by the National Assembly, the Prime Minister, ministries, and
relevant agencies. In 2025, Vietnam promulgated the amended Law on Atomic
Energy and approved specific mechanisms to facilitate the implementation of the
nuclear power project.

The INIR mission’s preliminary draft report offered 38
recommendations and 13 suggestions, emphasizing areas requiring further action
to benefit Vietnam. These include strengthening the legal and regulatory
framework for radiation safety, nuclear safety, security, and safeguards;
implementing plans to enhance human resource capacity; finalizing preparations
for the bidding and construction phases; developing a national strategy on the
nuclear fuel cycle and radioactive waste management; and updating coordination
mechanisms among all stakeholders.

The expert group acknowledged two “good
practices” of Vietnam that could serve as experience for other countries
developing nuclear power.

First, the National Assembly’s passing of
Resolution 189/2025/QH15 demonstrates a strong political commitment to the
nuclear power program. It simultaneously establishes specific mechanisms to
simplify investment procedures, accelerate site clearance, expand capabilities
for capital mobilization and contractor selection, and strengthen coordination
among ministries, sectors, and localities. This is a practice the IAEA views as
a decisive factor in ensuring the progress and sustainability of the program.

Second, Vietnam has effectively leveraged its
existing experience and environmental monitoring network to serve the nuclear
power project preparation process. This is a practice recommended by the IAEA
as it helps improve the quality of environmental assessments, increase
transparency, and reduce project preparation time.

These two practices demonstrate that Vietnam is
approaching the nuclear power program in a methodical manner, consistent with
international standards, and showing a determination for responsible and
effective implementation.

According to the schedule, in the first quarter of
2026, the IAEA and Vietnam will coordinate to finalize the draft INIR report.
In the second quarter of 2026, the IAEA will send the official report to the
Government of Vietnam after completing the necessary procedures.

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