HCMC – The Government has issued Decree 228/2025 on penalties in independent auditing, with fines of up to VND2 billion, effective from August 18.
The decree applies to individuals and organizations, both domestic and foreign, that violate regulations in independent auditing, including audit firms, branches, representative offices, professional associations, training institutions, and other related parties.
Penalties for violations in independent auditing can be imposed within five years of the offense being detected or completed.
Sanctions include warnings and monetary fines, with a maximum of VND1 billion for individuals and VND2 billion for organizations.
In addition, individuals and organizations may face supplementary penalties, such as revocation of professional practice certificates, suspension of audit service business activities, or confiscation of violating assets and means.
The decree also sets out fines for violations related to certificates, professional registration, business operations, auditing activities, reporting, and quality control.
Notably, violations concerning audit practice registration will be subject to fines ranging from VND5 million to VND500 million, depending on the nature and frequency of the offense.
For example, tampering with or altering an auditor’s certificate may result in fines of VND10 million to VND20 million, while falsifying audit practicing certificates for the third time or more could lead to fines of up to VND500 million.
The management and use of audit practicing certificates are also strictly regulated. Late submission or failure to return the certificate as required may incur fines of VND5 million to VND20 million, while using an expired certificate could result in fines of up to VND50 million.
The decree officially took effect on August 18. It is regarded as an important legal foundation to enhance transparency and discipline in independent auditing activities in Vietnam.
