Newsflash ASEAN

In this edition, we highlight several key legal and regulatory developments across the region, such as the new Decree 20/2025/ND-CP, effective from the 2024 financial year, which amends Vietnam’s tax regulations on related-party transactions by refining the definition of related parties, limiting classifications of third-party lenders, and updating rules on interest expense deductions. It also enhances the role of the State Bank in information sharing and revises reporting requirements to improve transparency and ease compliance for taxpayers. 

Furthermore, we shed a light on Malaysia's Data Sharing Act 2025, that establishes a legal framework for secure and efficient data sharing among Malaysian public sector agencies, while safeguarding personal data and enhancing transparency. It introduces the National Data Sharing Committee, outlines procedures for data requests and refusals, and enforces strict penalties for misuse, aiming to improve public service delivery and support Malaysia’s AI ambitions. Comparably, Vietnam’s draft Personal Data Protection Law (PDPL), released in March 2025, introduces key changes such as reclassifying personal data categories, mandating encryption for sensitive data, and imposing stricter controls on biometric data handling. It also provides a one-year grace period for compliance with new requirements, encouraging businesses to proactively update their data protection policies and systems ahead of the law’s expected enactment in 2026.

In May 2025, the EU and Singapore signed the EU–Singapore Digital Trade Agreement (EUSDTA), aimed at fostering seamless and secure digital trade. The agreement eliminates barriers such as data localization requirements and enhances protections for consumers and businesses. Building on the existing free trade agreement, it includes provisions on cross-border data flows, privacy, electronic transactions, and cooperation on digital standards. Ratification processes are currently underway.

Finally, we are pleased to invite you to two upcoming events:

On 3 July, 2025, we will be hosting the 26th Forum Global at our headquarters in Nuremberg – an event for decision-makers that combines international perspectives, technical depth and practical topics. The focus will be on high-calibre insights, a trend-setting keynote speech, exclusive global insights and in-depth perspective panels. Our colleagues from the ASEAN team will be providing a regional panel discussion on "Made in Germany - Sold in ASEAN: ​Success factors and challenges in designing sales structures in Southeast Asia, illustrated by the examples of Vietnam, Thailand, Singapore and Indonesia". For the full program and registration, please click​ HERE.

On 30 September 2025, our firm's Global HR Labour Law Forum will also be held at Nuremberg: ​In today’s increasingly globalized work environment, companies face complex labor law challenges shaped by diverse legal systems, cultural nuances, and evolving regulatory landscapes. Our Forum offers a valuable platform to stay informed about the latest developments, exchange best practices, and explore tailored solutions for your organization. For the full program and registration, please click HERE​​.

We hope you enjoy this edition and find the insights useful for your business.