The workshop was chaired by VSS Deputy Director Tran Dinh Lieu, with the participation of representatives from central ministries and agencies; domestic and international experts; organizations representing employees and employers; and delegates from provincial Social Security offices.

VSS Deputy  Director Tran Dinh Lieu

The workshop took place as Vietnam is entering a critical phase of social security system reform, particularly following the passage of the 2024 Law on Social Insurance that took effect on July 1, 2025. The event also forms part of the ongoing technical cooperation program between VSS and the WB, aligned with the goal of expanding social insurance coverage under the VSS Sector Development Strategy to 2030.

According to Ms. Camilla Holmemo, Regional Director for Social Protection and Jobs in East Asia and Pacific (WB), Viet Nam’s completion of amendments to the 2024 Law on Social Insurance represents a major milestone. However, Ms. Holmemo highlighted two major challenges Vietnam is facing: A high share of informal workers—about 76% of the labour force—yet only 5% currently participate in voluntary social insurance; and the rapid ageing of the population, which requires the pension system to expand coverage and increase fund sustainability and security.

The WB representative emphasized that the reform measures under the amended Law on Social Insurance—such as reducing the minimum contribution period for pension benefits, introducing short-term benefit schemes for voluntary social insurance participants, expanding the scope of mandatory social insurance, and lowering the age threshold for social pension eligibility—are critical steps to integrate informal workers into the system. However, to achieve the target of covering 60% of the labour force in line with Decision No. 38/QD-TTg, Viet Nam will need tailored policy solutions for particular occupational groups, especially gig workers and self-employed individuals.

At the workshop, domestic experts delivered several practical presentations, including updates on the latest revisions to the legal framework governing the implementation of social insurance policies. WB social protection specialists provided insights into new research on the impacts of expanding social insurance coverage. In addition, several international experts delivered online presentations, including on Brazil’s “Monotax” model integrating tax and social insurance/health insurance obligations for micro-enterprises and household businesses; initiatives to expand social insurance for commercial drivers; and innovative approaches to protecting seasonal workers in Egypt’s construction sector.

In his closing remarks, Deputy Director Tran Dinh Lieu underscored that the workshop reflects the strong cooperation between VSS and the WB in particular, and with international partners in general, towards building a sustainable social insurance policy framework and social security system. In the time ahead, VSS is committed to continuing reforms in the administration of social insurance policies, accelerating digital transformation, strengthening fund management efficiency, and effectively expanding social insurance coverage.