Abstract: The Night-time Economy is currently identified in Vietnam as a high-potential model, playing a vital role in fostering socio-economic growth and generating employment. Despite its recognized significance, the implementation of administrative management for these activities in the country continues to face numerous practical and regulatory challenges. This article addresses these gaps by undertaking a comparative analysis of public administration’s management experiences regarding the Night-Time Economy from three successful international models: China, Japan, and the United Kingdom. Drawing key lessons and insights from these international practices, the paper proposes a comprehensive set of policy solutions. The primary objective of these recommendations is to perfect the administrative management mechanism for night-time economic activities in Vietnam, thereby ensuring their effective, sustainable, and secure development.
Keywords: Night-Time Economy, international experience, public administration’s management
INTRODUCTION
The night-time economy is currently an important driver of economic growth, contributing to job creation and enhancing the global attractiveness of major cities worldwide. In Viet Nam, the concept of the night-time economy remains relatively new in both theoretical discourse and state administrative governance practice. However, in recent years, this economic activity has achieved notable results and made clear contributions to the growth of consumption, stimulation of tourism demand, image promotion, and the creation of new jobs, as well as to improving workers’ incomes, particularly in major urban areas such as Ha Noi, where the Ho Guom pedestrian street has become a destination attracting thousands of visitors every weekend[1], and Ho Chi Minh City with its night markets, Nguyen Hue pedestrian street and Bui Vien Western Quarter, along with 24-hour entertainment and food service areas[2]. In order to promote this sector, on 27 July 2020, the Prime Minister promulgated Decision No. 1129/QD-TTg approving the Scheme on the development of the night-time economy in Viet Nam.
Alongside these positive outcomes, the implementation process has encountered numerous challenges. Specifically, the current system of legal documents remains overlapping and fragmented across different levels of governance, while lacking a centralized and effective management model for the night-time economy. In particular, insufficient flexibility and unnecessary rigidity in regulations on opening hours for night-time service areas have created difficulties for both enterprises and local authorities. In addition, the absence of specific incentive mechanisms to attract the participation of individuals and organizations constitutes a further barrier. These factors have constrained investment incentives and reduced the effectiveness of tourism promotion associated with the night-time economy.
In this context, research into and reference to international experience in state administrative governance of night-time economic activities in countries that have successfully developed this model, such as China, Japan, and the United Kingdom, is of particular importance. This not only serves as a valuable source of practical reference, but also contributes to orientation and provides suggestions for solutions to strengthen state administrative governance capacity in respect of night-time economic activities in Viet Nam.
I. THE CONCEPT OF STATE ADMINISTRATIVE GOVERNANCE OF NIGHT-TIME ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES
At present, there is no unified definition of the night-time economy; however, in general, this economy reflects a trend of extending socio-economic activities into night-time hours in order to capitalize on underutilized resources. In addition, previous studies have commonly recognized that the night-time economy originates from increasing demand for entertainment, culture, and consumption, while generating direct economic benefits and socio-cultural spaces for urban communities. According to James Farrer, a scholar specializing in the study of the night-time economy, the night-time economy encompasses urban commercial and entertainment activities that take place at night. The night-time economy generally includes dance clubs and bars, restaurants, theaters, and other commercial activities organized in the evening[3]. On the basis of this general understanding, Nguyen Ngoc Son defines the night-time economy as the entirety of production, business, and service activities occurring from 6:00 p.m. of the previous day to 6:00 a.m. of the following day, including food and beverage services, retail, leisure, entertainment, and tourism, with the aim of meeting consumption needs, enhancing quality of life experiences, and promoting sustainable urban development[4]. In Viet Nam, there is currently no legal document that provides an official definition of the night-time economy. Nevertheless, Decision No. 1129/QD-TTg refers to this concept primarily within the scope of cultural, entertainment, food and beverage, shopping, and tourism services taking place from 6:00 p.m. of the previous day to 6:00 a.m. of the following day. Synthesizing perspectives from both theory and policy, the night-time economy may be understood as “a set of economic and service activities conducted from 6:00 p.m. of the previous day to 6:00 a.m. of the following day, formed from social needs and the process of urban development, aiming to maximize the use of space and time while creating economic, cultural, and social value for the community”.
State administrative governance refers to state governance in the executive sphere, carried out primarily and mainly by state administrative agencies, with the substance of ensuring compliance with laws, ordinances, and resolutions of state power bodies, for the purpose of organizing and directly and regularly directing the process of economic, socio-cultural, and administrative–political development.
On the basis of the concepts of state administrative governance and night-time economic activities discussed above, the following definition may be derived: State administrative governance of night-time economic activities is the activity carried out by the Government, ministries, ministerial-level agencies, and local authorities at all levels to formulate policies and to organize, direct, and supervise economic and service activities taking place from 6:00 p.m. of the previous day to 6:00 a.m. of the following day, with a view to ensuring the sustainable development of the night-time economy, promoting its socio-economic role, and ensuring compatibility with the specific characteristics of each locality.
The development of the night-time economy is not a short-term trend, but a long-term strategy aimed at promoting economic and social development. However, in order to steer this activity in the right direction and to ensure a balance between the objective of economic growth and the maintenance of social order and stability, all countries employ the core instrument of state administrative governance policies. This is explained by the essential roles of state administrative governance in relation to night-time economic activities as follows:
First, promoting a balance between spaces for night-time economic development and residential living spaces. The night-time economy, characterized by vibrant entertainment activities, often conflicts with residents’ need for rest in residential areas. State administrative governance plays an intermediary and regulatory role through instruments such as planning, the establishment of regulations on noise thresholds, opening and closing hours, and distances between night-time business establishments and residential areas, thereby helping to maintain social consensus and prevent negative reactions from local communities toward the development of night-time economic activities.
Second, controlling negative impacts on social order and security. The development of the night-time economy increases the consumption of alcoholic beverages, leading to a rise in traffic safety violations and disturbances of public order. In addition, the night-time environment also facilitates an increase in criminal activities such as prostitution, gambling, and drug-related offenses[5]. The rise in such law violations generates concern among residents and tourists when participating in and experiencing night-time economic activities. Therefore, state administrative governance of night-time economic activities is an urgent task to create a safe environment, build consumer confidence, and promote more robust development of the night-time economy. This role may be manifested through the establishment of intelligent surveillance systems, enhanced inter-agency patrols, and the development of safety standards for night-time business establishments.
Third, contributing to the regulation and promotion of growth in night-time economic activities. Instruments of state administrative governance in the night-time economy not only control the behavior of stakeholders but are also used to stimulate supply and demand within the night-time economy. This role is reflected in preferential policies such as financial levers (taxes and fees) and credit support to encourage enterprises to invest in the sustainable development of night-time economic activities, diversify types of activities, and thereby stimulate shopping and consumption demand among residents and tourists during night-time hours. At the same time, coordination through state administrative governance fosters linkages among service sectors such as public transportation and tourist accommodation, creating a coherent night-time economic ecosystem that both generates employment and provides convenience for consumers participating in night-time economic activities.
II. INTERNATIOMAL EXPERIENCE IN STATE ADMINISTRATIVE GOVERNANCE OF NIGHT-TIME ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES
2.1. China
The night-time economy emerged in China as early as 1979; however, it was not until the second half of the 1990s that it began to flourish[6]. By 2004, major cities such as Qingdao, Hangzhou, and Chongqing had adopted specific policies to promote the development of the night-time economy, demonstrating that the emphasis on night-time economic development had been embraced and implemented by Chinese cities. To date, after more than 20 years of development, the night-time economy in China has achieved outcomes of significant importance to the national economy. According to statistics in 2018, night-time cultural and artistic performances combined with night-time tourism in China generated revenues of CNY 6.7 billion (approximately USD 957 million) for the economy. According to data from the Ministry of Commerce of China, the market size of the night-time economy reached CNY 2.285,922 billion in 2018.
To achieve these results, China has adopted appropriate measures of state administrative governance, enabling governance activities to be effective while at the same time creating favorable conditions and development space for the night-time economy.
In terms of the governance model, at the central level, China decentralizes the governance of the night-time economy to local authorities at different levels. Local governments, in turn, appoint positions responsible for governing night-time economic activities to a multi-member council; these positions are entirely distinct from those related to the governance of daytime economic activities. This decentralization approach adopted by China both assigns responsibility to localities for the development of the night-time economy and enables night-time service activities to be designed and developed in a systematic and well-oriented manner, consistent with the characteristics of each area. On the basis of decentralization from the central level, cities in China have independently established dedicated local positions for the governance of night-time economic activities. In Beijing, local authorities have created a night-time economy management position known as the “lamplighter” at all three levels - city, district, and neighborhood - held by leaders of competent authorities at each level and representatives of business associations[7]. In Shanghai, local authorities have issued specific guidelines to promote the night-time industry by developing a number of entertainment areas operating from 7:00 p.m. to 6:00 a.m.[8], while at the same time appointing “night-time CEOs” - individuals with experience in managing night-time businesses - to effectively govern local night-time economic activities.
In terms of policy, China has promulgated a wide range of policies across multiple sectors, from the central to the local levels, to coordinate night-time economic activities. At the central level, in late August 2019, the Chinese Government announced 20 measures to promote consumption, including the measure on the “night-time market and business activities,” which set out various provisions on support and incentive policies such as reductions in electricity consumption prices and permission for 24/7 operations to encourage enterprises to open shops, outlets, and service facilities, thereby diversifying night-time economic activities. At the same time, this policy also stipulated requirements for ensuring public order and security at the local level. On the basis of policies issued by the central authorities, provinces and cities in China have adopted measures such as installing surveillance cameras, strengthening security at commercial centers, and establishing hotlines for users of transport services in emergency situations. Notably, more than 170 million surveillance cameras have been installed in public places and areas with complex public order and security conditions across China, using artificial intelligence technology and facial data analysis to prevent the exploitation of night-time spaces for criminal activities[9]. In addition, local authorities have also issued their own policies on night-time development in order to leverage the specific strengths of each locality. For example, in Beijing, in July 2019, the local government promulgated the “Beijing Measures on Further Developing the Night-Time Economy to Promote Consumption Growth,” which introduced policies to extend the operating hours of public transport services at night based on actual demand for transportation and night-time entertainment among residents and tourists. Accordingly, night bus routes in Beijing increased service frequency during the period from 12:00 a.m. to 1:00 a.m. to one trip every 20 minutes instead of every 30 minutes. Several metro lines also extended their operating hours to meet the travel needs of residents and tourists during night-time hours.
2.2. Japan
Efforts to promote Japan’s night-time economy began in the mid-2010s, accompanied by institutional arrangements aimed at fostering the growth of night-time entertainment activities[10].
In terms of the governance model, Japan has drawn on the “Night Mayor” model implemented in several European countries, which helps coordinate interests among residents, entertainment businesses, and public authorities during night-time hours. In Tokyo, Shibuya Ward appointed night mayors who are well-known figures in the music industry; among them, the rapper Zeebra was assigned the role of Night Ambassador, representing Tokyo at the Night Summit in Amsterdam and advocating for the adaptation of the night mayor model to the Japanese context. In Okinawa City, Okinawa Prefecture, ISSA, a member of the famous music group DA PUMP, was appointed as the Night Mayor of Okinawa City[11].
These practices demonstrate Japan’s innovative approach in utilizing influential public figures to convey messages that night-time activities are safe and worth experiencing, thereby contributing to a transformation of the image of night-time activities - from being associated with social vices to becoming a cultural and creative space supported by public authorities.
From a legal perspective, prior to 2016, night-time dance venues combined with food and beverage services were subject to strict regulation under the Act on Control and Improvement of Amusement Business, etc. (Fūeihō), which in practice resulted in many clubs and dance venues being prohibited from operating after midnight. Following amendments to this Act in 2016, certain business establishments were permitted to obtain licenses to operate after midnight[12].
However, in order to operate during the newly permitted hours, venues must be classified as Night-Time Entertainment Restaurant Activities. This new category of business is subject to specific requirements: (1) lighting levels must be below 10 lux[13]; and (2) the establishment must be located within a designated area known as an Extended Operation Permitted Zone, which is required to meet conditions such as a high density of business activities, location outside residential impact areas, and the presence of self-governance mechanisms[14]. These provisions have laid the groundwork for investors seeking to expand business operations into night-time hours, while also providing additional opportunities for residents and tourists to participate in night-time entertainment activities.
In terms of policy, Japan has introduced a wide range of support policies to encourage the development of the night-time economy. Notably, at the local level, Osaka Prefecture has implemented the Night Culture Exploration and Creation Project with the aim of encouraging investment in and development of the night-time economy. This project is intended to provide subsidies covering necessary costs for investors participating in night-time businesses, primarily targeting the domestic market. However, investors wishing to benefit from support under the project are required to undergo a prescribed process, including the submission of application dossiers, review of registration documents, verification of registration requirements, as well as interviews with enterprises and consideration of opinions from members of the Night Culture Exploration and Creation Research Group. On the part of local authorities, Osaka Prefecture has also fully disclosed information on application guidelines, support funding, timelines for submission, implementation and announcement, and other relevant documentation requirements[15]. The establishment of strict and detailed procedures at the local level enables effective screening of business entities with development potential and ensures compliance with prescribed requirements. At the same time, detailed procedural regulations facilitate access and implementation for individuals and organizations seeking to participate in night-time business activities.
2.3. The United Kingdom
The United Kingdom is regarded as a pioneering country in organizing and promoting the night-time economy. Since the 1990s, the night-time economy in the UK has received attention from the State. A series of proactive policies have been introduced to encourage investment and relax regulations on night-time activities, particularly in sectors considered sensitive.
In terms of the governance model, the Night Time Industries Association (NTIA) was established to serve as a bridge between businesses and state authorities, with functions including monitoring market developments, reflecting market conditions, and proposing policy recommendations to support the development of the night-time economy.
Notably, the City of London has established a specialized representative mechanism for the sector known as the Night Czar. The primary focus of this representative mechanism is the comprehensive governance, promotion, and protection of the city’s night-time life, with priority given to maintaining a balance between the night-time economy, culture, and community well-being.
With regard to its role, this representative mechanism improves the development space and infrastructure for night-time economic activities, aiming to provide safer, more engaging, and more convenient experiences for participants. In addition, the Night Czar is tasked with updating and adjusting policies and regulations related to night-time activities, ensuring a balance between the development of the night-time economy and the rights and interests of residents. Finally, the mechanism performs a mediating and connecting function among relevant stakeholders, including businesses, residents, competent authorities, and public services, thereby helping to mitigate negative impacts such as noise, security concerns, and traffic issues.
In terms of organizational structure and institutional form, the Night Czar is an appointed position under the Mayor of London, rather than an elected office. This position does not constitute an independent body but operates under the supervision of the Greater London Authority (GLA) and is supported by a dedicated team responsible for research, media relations, and coordination with borough-level authorities [16]. With regard to legal authority and decision-making powers, the Night Czar’s role primarily involves coordination, advocacy, and policy facilitation, rather than the exercise of direct executive powers [17].
From a legal perspective, the United Kingdom’s Licensing Act 2003 has contributed to relaxing conditions for night-time activities and establishing a flexible legal framework for the governance of the night-time economy at the local level. Several notable regulatory provisions include the following:
First, regulations on licensable activities. Activities subject to licensing include the retail sale of alcohol; the supply of alcohol by clubs; the provision of regulated entertainment; and the provision of late-night refreshment. Concentrating on these four categories of activities enables both public authorities and businesses to apply for licenses and manage compliance more effectively.
Second, regulations on designated premises supervisors. All premises engaged in the sale of alcohol are required to appoint a designated premises supervisor holding a personal licence, thereby ensuring accountability and professional oversight.
Third, regulations on the decentralization of the licensing governance model. Licensing powers are vested in local licensing authorities, such as district councils in England or county councils in England where there is no district council. Through this arrangement, the Act devolves regulatory authority from the central government to local authorities, enabling them to proactively organize and manage night-time economic models tailored to the specific conditions of the localities under their jurisdiction.
III. SHORTCOMINGS IN THE PRACTICE OF STATE ADMINISTRATIVEE GOVERNANCE OF NIGHT-TIME ECONOMIC ACTIVITIES IN VIET NAM
Although the night-time economy has been increasingly emphasized for development in Viet Nam in accordance with the orientation set out in Decision No. 1129/QD-TTg, the practice of state administrative governance of night-time economic activities still reveals numerous shortcomings, ranging from legal regulations to organizational structures and development-promotion mechanisms. Through an examination of these aspects, the following limitations may be identified:
First, shortcomings in regulatory provisions governing the night-time economy
At present, the operating hours of sectors and business lines characteristic of the night-time economy are largely restricted to the period from midnight (0:00) to 8:00 a.m. Pursuant to Decree No. 103/2009/ND-CP dated 6 November 2009 of the Government, promulgating the Regulation on cultural activities and public cultural service business, business activities such as discotheques, karaoke services, electronic games, and other cultural, recreational, and entertainment activities - whether conducted for profit or not - are prohibited from operating between 0:00 and 8:00 a.m. This regulation does not apply to bars located within tourist accommodation establishments rated three stars or higher or of high-class standard, nor to discotheques and karaoke rooms within tourist accommodation establishments rated four stars or higher or of high-class standard. Meanwhile, under the development orientation of Decision No. 1129/QD-TTg, the night-time economy is encouraged to develop during the period from 6:00 p.m. of the previous day to 6:00 a.m. of the following day. Thus, under current regulations, the operating time of the night-time economy is effectively restricted to only half of the duration envisaged by policy. Beyond failing to meet development policy objectives, such restrictions on operating hours also give rise to significant consequences, limiting economic activity options for both international tourists and local residents after midnight. This not only diminishes the diversity and richness of experiences that could otherwise be enjoyed through participation in vibrant night-time economic activities, but also reflects a lack of flexibility in the legal framework, forcing many forms of entertainment, dining, and shopping to cease operations early. As a result, opportunities for Viet Nam to fully exploit the potential of the night-time market are lost. Moreover, this situation may adversely affect the development of the tourism and service sectors, which constitute important pillars of the national economy.
Second, shortcomings in the governance model of night-time economic activities
At present, the state administrative apparatus from the central to the local level in Viet Nam has not established any specialized body tasked specifically with the governance of the night-time economy. Governance responsibilities are largely dispersed among various departments and agencies, city police forces, and local authorities (at the provincial and commune levels) where such economic activities arise. Night-time economy governance tasks are assigned to officials, civil servants, and public employees whose working hours are generally prescribed during the daytime, resulting in unclear and insufficient salary and allowance mechanisms that are not commensurate with the nature and intensity of their duties.
The absence of a standing unit with a centralized governance mechanism covering the entire territory of a province or city - entrusted with responsibilities such as direction, monitoring, evaluation, policy formulation, and the implementation of inspection and supervision - has led to uneven development of the night-time economy across localities. In many cases, development remains spontaneous, lacks coherent orientation, and is not aligned with a clearly defined long-term strategy.
In the context of the lack of a specialized governance body, the formulation and issuance of policies among different localities and levels of government (provincial and commune levels) have exhibited considerable divergence, with insufficient coordination and consistency. In principle, Decision No. 1129/QD-TTg authorizes provincial and municipal authorities to proactively research and promulgate policies, plans, and solutions to promote the night-time economy. However, the delegation of broad powers without an accompanying centralized coordination mechanism has resulted in disparities in practice. Some localities have adopted provincial-level plans or schemes for night-time economy development, such as Quang Ninh Province, whereas in other localities - most notably Hanoi - no provincial-level policy on night-time economy development has been promulgated, yet former district-level authorities have taken the initiative to issue their own plans. A typical example is Hoan Kiem District (now comprising the areas under Hoan Kiem Ward, Cua Nam Ward, part of Hong Ha Ward, and Ba Dinh), which promulgated Scheme No. 11-DA/QU on “Development of the Night-time Economy in Hoan Kiem District”.
This reality highlights the organic relationship between decentralization and delegation of powers within the governance apparatus and the issue of policy formulation for the development of night-time economic activities. When commune-level authorities independently promulgate plans and policies to promote the night-time economy without overarching guidance from provincial-level authorities, a range of consequences may arise, including policies that lack strategic vision, fail to fully reflect the cultural identity of the province or city as a whole, and, in particular, the emergence of overlapping, duplicative, and spontaneous policy contents in development initiatives[18].
Third, shortcomings in mechanisms for dialogue facilitation and incentives in the night-time economy
Although Decision No. 1129/QD-TTg contains provisions encouraging dialogue channels, in practice this aspect has hardly been implemented effectively at the local level. This is evidenced by the persistent and sometimes acute conflicts between the demand for night-time entertainment and business activities of young people and enterprises, on the one hand, and the legitimate need for rest and the assurance of quietness of a segment of residents living in and around night-time economic zones, on the other. These tensions have given rise to complaints and disputes related to noise pollution, localized traffic congestion, and concerns over public security and order[19].
In addition, Decision No. 1129/QD-TTg also emphasizes the importance of preferential and incentive policies; however, to date, almost no province or city has established an effective, tailored support mechanism to attract investment and encourage the development of the night-time economy[20].
It can be observed that enterprises and residents continue to participate largely on a spontaneous basis or through sporadic feedback, resulting in policies that lack practical grounding and fail to generate broad social consensus. The prevailing mindset of “if it cannot be managed, it should be prohibited” remains widespread, causing enterprises to hesitate to provide input for fear of stricter controls, while simultaneously creating reluctance to engage in night-time business activities due to the potential risk of high costs inherent in operating at night.
Fourth, shortcomings in administrative procedures for engaging in night-time economic activities
Services within the night-time economy mainly fall under specialized business lines, which require separate business licenses in addition to the enterprise registration certificate. Moreover, enterprises operating in conditional business lines related to security and public order - such as massage services, casinos, karaoke, discotheques, and similar activities - must also obtain certificates of eligibility for security and public order. Enterprises engaged in on-premises alcohol sales are further required to obtain a license for on-site alcohol consumption. Consequently, to operate in the specialized sectors of the night-time economy, enterprises are required to obtain three to four different certificates and licenses, creating difficulties in document management as well as procedural burdens when applying for new licenses or renewing expired ones.
Furthermore, under current regulations, restaurant chains or bar chains that engage in alcohol sales are required to register and obtain a license for on-site alcohol consumption for each individual business location at the local level. This results in increased time and cost burdens for enterprises, as well as risks of inconsistency across localities. Although recent decrees have decentralized licensing authority to the commune level as of July 2025, this decentralization may, in practice, increase the number of dossiers that enterprises must process when operating across multiple locations, rather than reducing the administrative burden.
IV. LESSONS FOR VIET NAM
In recent years, Viet Nam’s night-time economy has achieved notable results and made clear contributions to consumption growth, tourism demand stimulation, image promotion, job creation, and improvements in workers’ incomes.
However, state administrative governance in this field still reveals numerous shortcomings, as analyzed above. Most sectors and business lines characteristic of the night-time economy are currently permitted to operate only until before midnight, with the exception of discotheques, karaoke establishments, and bars located within tourist accommodation facilities[21]. Enterprises engaged in on-site alcohol consumption are required to complete alcohol sales registration procedures for each individual business location, creating procedural burdens for restaurant and bar chains operating multiple outlets across different localities. In addition, issues related to human resources and management time for night-time economic activities remain inadequately addressed, as management personnel are mainly civil servants and public employees, without a stable, dedicated management workforce, while their working hours are largely prescribed for daytime operations in provinces and cities. Based on an examination of international experience in state administrative governance of night-time economic activities in China, the United Kingdom, and Japan, the authors propose several solutions aimed at improving the current governance framework in Viet Nam, as follows:
First, regarding the legal framework for the governance of night-time economic activities
It is necessary to improve the legal regulatory system in order to create favorable conditions for the development of the night-time economy in Viet Nam, as this constitutes the basis for the administrative apparatus to carry out governance of night-time economic activities. Viet Nam should consider further extending operating hours for many sectors related to entertainment and food and beverage services after midnight, particularly on weekends when demand for participation in night-time economic activities increases significantly. The extension of operating hours for these businesses may draw reference from Japan’s regulatory mechanism governing post-midnight operations, such as requirements concerning sound, lighting, and location planning outside residential areas. Viet Nam’s current limitation on operating hours for sectors and business lines characteristic of the night-time economy, while providing exceptions only for discotheques, karaoke establishments, and bars within tourist accommodation facilities, is narrowing consumers’ choices in participating in night-time economic activities. At the same time, this leads to the consequence that consumers make greater use of services that the State does not encourage after midnight.
Second, regarding the governance model for night-time economic activities
Viet Nam may refer to China’s experience in decentralizing authority to local governments to design specialized governance models in order to harness the potential for night-time economic development in each area. Especially in the context of streamlining the state apparatus, merging administrative units, and minimizing staffing levels, such governance models must be carefully studied, with dedicated personnel possessing appropriate qualifications and expertise, suitable to the level of night-time economic development in each locality and the local budgetary capacity. In addition, due to the specific requirement to work at night in order to monitor and govern the development of the night-time economy, working hours as well as salary and allowance calculation mechanisms for officials, civil servants, and public employees working after 18:00 should be regulated in a unified and transparent manner, so as to clearly define night-time working hours and corresponding allowances for this workforce.
For example, in Ha Noi, a city-level or commune-level steering committee dedicated to the implementation of the night-time economy model could be established, or this specialized organizational arrangement could be designed as a small unit attached to an existing body, such as the Department of Tourism under the People’s Committee of Ha Noi. In terms of legal status, pursuant to Decree No. 150/2025/ND-CP dated 12 June 2025 of the Government on the organization of specialized agencies under the People’s Committees of provinces and centrally governed cities, and People’s Committees of communes, wards, and special administrative units under provinces and centrally governed cities, the night-time economy governance body would be a professional and technical unit under the Department of Tourism, established in accordance with competent authority, to assist the People’s Committee in performing state management functions over night-time economic activities within the locality. Accordingly, with respect to policy formulation and implementation mechanisms, decisions developed under the leadership of this unit would be submitted to the Chairperson of the city-level People’s Committee for consideration and decision on important matters with wide-ranging impacts, particularly those involving budgetary adjustments, planning, or working-time regulations.
This integrated institutional arrangement would both limit the creation of additional staffing positions and ensure the existence of a focal point with sufficient authority and capacity, consistent with assigned functions and tasks, to coordinate, supervise, support, and effectively develop night-time economic activities.
In addition, Viet Nam may draw on Japan’s experience by establishing a position analogous to a “night mayor” on a semi-professional basis. This role could be assumed by an individual with management credibility in night-time economy businesses or by a public figure who serves as an image representative, connecting enterprises, the community, and the media to promote night-time economic zones associated with creativity, artistic innovation, and cultural vitality. Such a position should operate independently from formal governmental management posts and be designed flexibly, depending on the specific conditions and practical circumstances of each locality.
Third, regarding policies to encourage public and business dialogue in the state administrative governance of night-time economic activities
It is necessary to facilitate the participation of enterprises and the private sector in contributing opinions, as well as in the formulation, supervision, and operation of night-time economic activities. First, channels for feedback and consultation should be established through public consultation portals, feedback applications, or dialogue forums, enabling residents and businesses to promptly reflect issues arising from the impacts of the night-time economy.
At the same time, Viet Nam may learn from the United Kingdom’s experience in establishing an association of enterprises operating in the night-time economy, thereby creating an official forum through which businesses can exchange information, share market insights, and provide mutual support in business operations. Such an association should aim to promote mutual assistance among businesses, raise industry standards, and cooperate with government authorities and local communities to ensure the safe and sustainable development of the night-time economy, while also enhancing the competitiveness of enterprises in this highly potential sector.
Fourth, regarding the application of technology in the system of state administrative governance of night-time economic activities
The development of night-time economic activities inevitably entails negative externalities, including an increase in crime and disturbances to public order. In the governance process, reliance solely on human monitoring through conventional camera systems may result in many violations going undetected. In order to promptly identify, prevent, and handle violations arising from night-time economic activities, Viet Nam needs to learn from China’s experience in applying camera systems integrated with artificial intelligence, which are capable of analyzing facial data and behavioral patterns to support the identification and apprehension of offenders. At present, artificial intelligence–integrated camera systems have been widely installed across Ha Noi; however, they are largely used only to detect violations of traffic order and safety[22]. Therefore, to better serve the requirements of state administrative governance of the night-time economy, AI-integrated camera systems in Viet Nam need to be upgraded on the basis of existing technologies and deployed more extensively, ensuring that they are not limited to monitoring and handling traffic order and safety violations.
For example, Viet Nam already possesses a national population database; accordingly, cameras using artificial intelligence may be integrated with facial biometric technologies, enabling the rapid identification of individuals and the handling of subjects committing violations. The widespread installation of AI-based camera systems would raise awareness among participants in night-time economic activities that their behavior is subject to supervision, thereby discouraging violations and criminal conduct. At the same time, such systems would enhance the sense of safety for consumers and tourists when participating in night-time economic activities.
Fifth, regarding the establishment of procedures for financial support and licensing for individuals and organizations operating in night-time economic activities
Viet Nam may learn from Japan’s experience by formulating economic incentive policies to encourage and create motivation for individuals and organizations to expand and diversify night-time activities. However, in order to ensure the effectiveness and feasibility of such policies, Viet Nam needs to promulgate a clear guidance framework on the procedures for accessing financial support sources, including:
(1) Clearly defining the objectives and scope of the policy;
(2) Criteria for eligibility to receive support;
(3) Application dossiers and standardized forms;
(4) Application processing procedures with specified time limits for each step;
(5) Allocation of management and implementation responsibilities among competent authorities, localities, and financial partners;
(6) Transparency standards and processing timelines;
(7) Complaint-handling and feedback mechanisms;
(8) Technical assistance and digitalization;
(9) Monitoring, evaluation, and policy adjustment;
(10) Risk mitigation measures and compliance requirements relating to safety, fire prevention and firefighting, environmental protection, and labor regulations.
Nevertheless, in the implementation of such policies, Viet Nam may delegate authority and responsibility to individual localities. Authorized localities would then promulgate their own procedural regulations tailored to local budgetary conditions and human resource capacities.
In addition, administrative procedures applicable to night-time economy service establishments should be simplified. Beyond the enterprise registration certificate and business license, permits such as certificates of eligibility for security and public order and licenses for on-site alcohol consumption could be integrated into the enterprise’s business license, thereby avoiding the requirement for enterprises to submit multiple applications for multiple business locations and to maintain numerous certificates and licenses.
CONCLUSION
In the current international context, the night-time economy has emerged as a prominent and highly potential development trend, contributing to the expansion of economic space, increased consumption, and the promotion of cultural and social interaction at both local and international levels in many countries. Viet Nam is no exception to this trend, as the Party and the State have increasingly developed a profound awareness of the role of the night-time economy in driving tourism service growth, transforming new models of urban development, and improving the spiritual and material quality of life of the people. The attention of authorities at various levels is reflected in the promulgation of numerous orientations and policies at the central, provincial, and grassroots levels in recent years to guide and encourage the development of the night-time economy.
However, practical implementation shows that the night-time economy in Viet Nam has yet to fully realize its inherent potential. Regulations on the governance of the night-time economy remain inconsistent, creating disadvantages for tourism development and night-time business activities; the governance system remains fragmented, lacking a unified coordination and operational mechanism capable of keeping pace with the rapid development of new service activities; and the participation and contributions of local residents and enterprises remain fragmented, without effective linkage into state administrative governance of the night-time economy. These limitations underscore an urgent need to establish an appropriate, modern, and streamlined institutional framework for governance, administration, and control.
In the process of improving the legal framework and governance procedures, learning from international experience in China, Japan, and the United Kingdom is an important and inevitable approach. Nevertheless, such learning should not take the form of rigidly replicating foreign models, but rather of flexible and creative adaptation consistent with Viet Nam’s institutional conditions, cultural context, and urban characteristics. Only through such an approach can the night-time economy truly become a new pillar of development, generating substantial revenue while ensuring security, public order, national identity, and sustainability at both the national and local levels.
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[*] PhD – Senior Lecturer, Vice Dean of the Faculty of Administrative and State Law, Hanoi Law University, approval date: 31 December 2025
[**] Student, Faculty of Economic Law, Hanoi Law University
[***] Student, Faculty of Economic Law, Hanoi Law University
[****] Student, Faculty of Economic Law, Hanoi Law University, Email: vuduy210805@gmail.com
[1] An Nhien, Management of Hoan Kiem Lake pedestrian street – Cultural values placed above economic values, Economy & Urban, (06 January 2024), https://kinhtedothi.vn/quan-ly-pho-di-bo-ho-guom-gia-tri-van-hoa-dat-tren-gia-tri-kinh-te.html.
[2] Le Hang, What has Ho Chi Minh City done to effectively exploit the night-time economy in pedestrian streets?, VOV – The Voice of Viet Nam (09 October 2020), https://vov.vn/xa-hoi/tphcm-lam-gi-de-khai-thac-hieu-qua-kinh-te-ve-dem-o-pho-di-bo-784625.vov.
[3] JAMES FARRER,THE SAGE HANDBOOK OF CONTEMPORARY CHINA, SAGE
PUBLICATION, 1113 (2018).
[4] NGUYEN NGOC SON, DEVELOPMENT OF THE NIGHT-TIME ECONOMY IN VIET NAM, NATIONAL POLITICAL PUBLISHING HOUSE - TRUTH, P.15 (2023).
[5] Le Manh Hung, Development of the night-time economy in Viet Nam: Opportunities and challenges, Economy and Forecast Review (11 August 2021),
https://kinhtevadubao.vn/phat-trien-kinh-te-ban-dem-o-viet-nam-co-hoi-va-thach-thuc-dat-ra-18812.html.
[6] Nguyen Danh Nam, Uong Thi Ngoc Lan, Development of the night-time economy – China’s experience and policy implications for the Central Key Economic Region, Business and Technology Journal, No. 19, pp. 38, 40–41 (2022).
[7] Bich Thuan, Policies encouraging the development of the "night-time economy" in Beijing, VOV – The Voice of Viet Nam (24 July 2019), https://vov.vn/kinh-te/cac-chinh-sach-khuyen-khich-phat-trien-kinh-te-ban-dem-cua-bac-kinh-935491.vov.
[8] PV, Night-time economy: A driving force helping countries revive the tourism industry, People’s Public Security Newspaper (14 February 2025), https://cand.com.vn/Kinh-te/kinh-te-dem-cu-hich-giup-cac-nuoc-hoi-sinh-nganh-du-lich-i759093/.
[9] Pham Thuy Nga, Application of artificial intelligence and big data analytics in criminal investigation – International experience and several suggestions for Viet Nam, Democracy and Law Journal (22 May 2023), https://danchuphapluat.vn/ung-dung-tri-tue-nhan-tao-va-phan-tich-du-lieu-lon-trong-dieu-tra-toi-pham-kinh-nghiem-cua-cac-quoc-gia-tren-the-gioi-va-mot-so-goi-y-cho-viet-nam-540.html.
[10] The Yomiuri Shimbun, Japan’s nighttime economy in spotlight as tourists return, Asia News Network
(17/08/2023), https://asianews.network/japans-nighttime-economy-in-spotlight-as-tourists-return/.
[11] 仁木一彦
, ナイトタイムエコノミーの海外事例と日本の動向,
Business Lawyers
(18/07/2019), ナイトタイムエコノミーの海外事例と日本の動向 - BUSINESS
LAWYERS.
[12] Act on
Control and Improvement of Amusement Business, etc., Law No. 60 of 1948
(as amended by Law No. 60 of 2020), art. 13 (Japan).
[13] Ordinance
for Enforcement of the Act on Control and Improvement of Amusement Business,
etc., Nat’l Pub. Safety Comm’n Reg. No. 18 of 2020, art. 75, cl. 5
(Japan).
[14] Cabinet
Order for Enforcement of the Act on Control and Improvement of Amusement
Business, etc., Cabinet Order No. 388 of 2020, art. 9 (Japan).
[15] Osaka Prefectural Government
, 令和7年度大阪府ナイトカルチャー発掘・創出事業 令和7年度「大阪府ナイトカルチャー発掘・創出事業補助金」補助対象事業（新規）の募集について, (01/08/2025) https://www.pref.osaka.lg.jp/o070080/miryokuzukuri/night-culture/night-bosyu-r7.html.
[16] Julieta Cuneo , 24 Hour London
& London Night Czar, The Time Use Initiative, https://timeuse.barcelona/good-practices/24-hour-london-czar/.
[17] Mahmoud, M. H., & Zmyślony, P. , Evaluating nighttime governance structures: Implications
for urban policy in Night Mayor and consultative body models,
Studia Periegetica, 45(1),
83-84 (2024)
[18] Tran Vu Hai, Nguyen Son Hai, “Policies on the development of the night-time economy in several localities: commentary and recommendations”, Democracy and Law Journal (24 August 2022) https://danchuphapluat.vn/chinh-sach-phat-trien-kinh-te-ban-dem-tai-mot-so-dia-phuong-hien-nay-va-binh-luan-kien-nghi-1-2968.html
[19] Phung Le Dung (PhD), Building the institutional framework for the night-time economy in Viet Nam at present, State Management Review (14 November 2025), https://www.quanlynhanuoc.vn/2025/11/14/xay-dung-the-che-kinh-te-dem-o-viet-nam-hien-nay/.
[20] Giang Nam, Creating favorable conditions to promote the night-time economy, The People (11 June 2024), https://nhandan.vn/tao-dieu-kien-de-thuc-day-kinh-te-ban-dem-post813716.html.
[21] Article 37 of Decree No. 103/2009/ND-CP.
[22] Hanoi City Police Electronic Information Portal, Hanoi City Police operate 1,873 AI cameras from December 2025, contributing step by step to enhancing infrastructure for ensuring traffic order and safety in the Capital, (23 October 2025),
https://congan.hanoi.gov.vn/tin-tuc/cong-an-thanh-pho-ha-noi-van-hanh-1-873-32885.
