Land policy for socioeconomic development in Vietnam

This paper explores land policy for socioeconomic development in Vietnam. The research is based on field work, discussions with officials and scholars and background research, and highlights topics critical to the formulation and implementation of land policy. These topics – land as an asset, complementary public investments that raise the efficiency of land use, land conversion, food security, land consolidation, land and property taxation, and environmental sustainability – have been examined within a law and economics framework. Specific legal changes that would improve the implementation of land policy are also discussed. The cross-cutting issues of gender, ethnic minorities, and rural development are also examined where appropriate.