No. Stun guns are classified as prohibited weapons under Vietnam’s 2017 Law on Management and Use of Weapons, Explosives, and Support Tools. The Ministry of Public Security (MPS) strictly prohibits civilian possession, sale, or import without special authorization, which is rarely granted. Violations may result in confiscation, fines up to VND 500 million, or imprisonment under the 2015 Penal Code.
Key Regulations for Stun Guns in Vietnam
- Prohibition Status: Stun guns are explicitly listed as “support tools” requiring MPS approval, which civilians cannot obtain. The 2023 Circular 19/2023/TT-BCA reinforces this by banning their manufacture, trade, or transport.
- Penalties: Unauthorized possession triggers administrative fines (Decree 144/2021/ND-CP) or criminal liability (Article 304, Penal Code), with sentences up to 7 years for trafficking.
- Border Controls: Customs authorities (General Department of Vietnam Customs) seize stun guns at entry points, citing Decree 15/2020/ND-CP on prohibited goods.
Recent enforcement trends show increased crackdowns ahead of the 2026 ASEAN Games in Hanoi, with joint patrols between MPS and local police targeting illegal arms. Foreign nationals face deportation for violations.