Vietnam to force YouTube and other platforms to allow skipping ads after 5 seconds starting February 15

The government of Vietnam has recently rolled out a new law known as Decree 342/2025 that forces YouTube and other digital platforms to enable users to skip video advertisements after a maximum of five seconds.

According to the regulation, the law is expected to come into effect on the 15th of February 2026. The reason behind introducing this law is to protect the rights of users who find advertisements on digital platforms very frustrating due to their length.The new rule will hit video adverts that previously made viewers sit through 15 to 30 seconds without offering a skip option. It will also hit static image ads, pop-ups, and banners, which now need to be immediately closeable with a single click.

Platforms will also be obliged to remove deceptive designs that dupe users into clicking adverts, ensuring all skip or close buttons are in clear sight.

New Vietnam law requires skippable ads on YouTube and other platforms

Under the new law, all digital platforms operating in Vietnam must give users the ability to skip or close ads within five seconds. This includes video ads, animated content, and static banners. Pop-up ads must not use fake “close” buttons or misleading icons. Users should be able to dismiss any ad quickly and clearly.

The decree also requires that online ads include visible icons or instructions to report illegal content or opt out of certain types of ads. Advertising platforms, content providers, and publishers are responsible for removing illegal or harmful ads within 24 hours of a government request. If they fail to comply, Vietnam’s Ministry of Information and Communications can block their content, and authorities can take further legal action.

Telecommunication and internet service providers are also required to help restrict access to non-compliant ads.This is perceived as part of the efforts by the Vietnam government to ensure that the country has a much safer and friendlier digital space. These unskippable adverts have been an unpopular trend even on an international level, and this amendment has been expected to bring much-needed improvements.With the implementation of the law on February 15, 2026, YouTube and other online streaming services will have to adapt their current online ad systems to allow for compliance. Users in Vietnam will now enjoy quicker and uninterrupted online browsing as they will not have to suffer through prolonged online commercial adverts.Also Read: Twitch streamer Swifty unbanned after brief suspension, thanks fans for support