A new decree will set stricter penalties on press and publishing irregularities and violations, effective January 1, 2014.
As per the new decree, maximum penalties for administrative violations in media and publishing will be VND100 million (US$4,800) for individuals and VND200 million ($9,600) for organizations.
Any incorrect reporting of a case that creates an adverse effect on society will receive a penalty of VND5-10 million ($237-474). Any article describing details of any obscene act, dreadful massacre or tragic accident that is not in accordance with Vietnamese traditional values, will be fined VND5-10 million.
Fines of VND5-10 million will be applicable on those articles highlighting backward customs and superstitions. Acts of printing, issuing and copying material showing incorrect national borders of Vietnam will be fined VND5-10 million ($480).
Above all, publishing or disseminating books or documents that the government put on the index or any article that is detrimental to the country’s interest, will be fined VND70-100 million ($3,318-4,741).
