Decree No. 21/2012/ND-CP on management of seaports and navigable channels.

This Decree provides for investment in, construction, management and operation of seaports and navigable channels, and management of maritime activities in Vietnamese seaports and seas. This Decree shall apply to military ports, fishing ports, and inland ports and harbours located in seaport waters.
The Decree provides for: investment in and construction of seaports and marine navigable channels which shall comply with approved seaport development plan; powers of the Minister of Transport to announce the opening or closure of seaports, harbours, wharves and water zones and areas; principles of management and operation of seaports and navigable channels; principles of management and operation of state-invested harbour and wharf infrastructure facilities; protection of seaport and navigable channel facilities; procedures for vessels to arrive at and depart from seaports; maritime pilotage services; search, rescue and handling of maritime accidents; assurance of safety and security, and order and sanitation at seaports; prevention of, and response to, environmental incidents; etc.