New data storage rules for Facebook and Google as Vietnam passes cybersecurity law

Law essential to fight cybercrime, authorities say. But critics warn of potential to harm to investment and free speech

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Unlike China, Vietnam doesn’t block websites such as Facebook, Google and Twitter. Photo: EPA

Published: 12:51pm, 12 Jun 2018Updated: 9:17pm, 12 Jun 2018

Vietnamese lawmakers approved a controversial cybersecurity law on Tuesday, voting amid tight security following weekend protests over other legislation that turned violent in some parts of the communist country.

The law, approved by 91 per cent of attending lawmakers, would require Facebook, Google and other global technology firms to store locally “important” personal data on users in Vietnam and open offices in the country.

The companies have pushed back against the provisions.

The vote took place two days after thousands of demonstrators took to the streets in several cities and provinces to denounce a plan to create new economic zones for foreign investment that has fuelled anti-Chinese sentiment in the country.

Security was tight ahead of Tuesday’s vote, with police manning barricades outside the National Assembly in the capital Hanoi.

Some protesters on Sunday had derided the cybersecurity bill, which experts and activists say could cause economic harm and stifle online dissent.

The vote took place two days after thousands of demonstrators took to the streets in several cities and provinces to denounce a plan to create new economic zones for foreign investment that has fuelled anti-Chinese sentiment in the country. Photo: EPA