Vietnam Outlaws Unskippable Online Ads

(MENAFN) Vietnam has enacted new rules that prohibit unskippable advertisements on YouTube and other digital platforms. The legislation, which comes into force on February 15, is designed to strengthen oversight of online advertising in the Southeast Asian nation, aiming to shield the public from excessive screen fatigue and unlawful promotional material.

In recent weeks, users across multiple countries have voiced frustration over prolonged unskippable ads on YouTube, with some reporting they were compelled to sit through clips lasting up to an hour.

Under the revised advertising law, video ads must allow skipping within five seconds, while static advertisements must be instantly dismissible.

The regulations also require platforms to provide simple, one-click options for closing ads and forbid deceptive or ambiguous close icons intended to mislead viewers.

Furthermore, platforms are mandated to offer consumers straightforward mechanisms to report advertisements that breach the law.

The legislation also imposes stricter controls on promotions for 11 categories of goods and services considered to directly affect public health and the environment. These include cosmetics, food products, alcoholic beverages, pharmaceuticals, and other sensitive items.

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