Decree No, 57/2008/ND-CP promulgating the Regulation on management of Viet Nam’s marine reserves of national and international importance.

This Regulation provides criteria for the classification, management, organization, protection and development of Viet Nam’s marine reserves of national and international importance.
The Regulation classifies marine reserves into national parks, marine species and biotope conservation zones, and reserves of natural aquatic resources. Each area shall meet specific conditions as provided for in the text. Depending on its natural characteristics each marine reserve shall be divided into three functional zones: a strictly protected zone for monitoring natural developments of typical marine plants and animal species, and aquatic ecosystems; an ecological restoration zone for restoring and facilitating the natural regeneration of aquatic species and ecosystems; a development zone for conducting aquaculture, exploitation of aquatic products, ecotourism, etc.
The Regulation further provides for the following matters: communities participating in the protection and development of marine reserves; establishment of marine reserve management boards and their tasks and powers; acts prohibited in marine reserves; financial sources of marine reserves; and responsibilities of ministries and local authorities.