Vietnam deputy health minister held in bribery probe

Photo courtesy of Tuoi Tre

Vietnamese police have prosecuted and detained Deputy Health Minister Tran Van Thuan on an allegation of accepting bribes, as investigators widen a case involving medical equipment, accounting violations and smuggling.

Deputy minister detained under bribery law

The Ministry of Public Security said the decision was carried out on Wednesday under Clause 4, Article 354 of the Penal Code. Thuan, 56, has been placed in pretrial detention while the investigation continues.

The action is the latest development in a wider inquiry centred on Viet My Medical Investment JSC, related organisations and several localities. Police are examining the scale of the alleged wrongdoing, the roles of defendants and other people involved, and efforts to recover state assets.

Thuan is a professor and medical doctor from Bac Ninh Province. He has served as deputy minister of health since 2020 and was reappointed in April 2025. He previously led K Hospital and chaired the Vietnam Young Physicians Association.

An oncology specialist involved in cancer prevention, treatment and research, Thuan also initiated the Bright Future Fund to support cancer patients.

Medical imports investigated

The case became public on 25 July when investigators prosecuted and detained Bui Chan Phuong, former chairman of Viet My Medical Investment JSC; company director Ha Van Nam; and Tran Thi Hong Hanh, who oversaw its accounting operations.

They are accused of smuggling and violating accounting regulations with serious consequences. Investigators allege that Phuong operated three companies in Vietnam, five in Singapore and three in Hong Kong.

The overseas businesses were allegedly used to buy and resell medical equipment and pharmaceutical products repeatedly, increasing prices before the goods entered Vietnam and were sold to healthcare facilities at much higher prices.

Authorities say the scheme generated substantial illicit profits, reduced state revenue and harmed patients’ interests. Suspects are also accused of misusing medical equipment import licences issued by the Health Ministry and falsely declaring extra devices as accompanying equipment to bring them into the country illegally.

Investigation remains active

The allegations have not yet been tested at trial. Police said they would continue clarifying the conduct of those already charged and identifying any other individuals involved.

What it means for foreigners in Vietnam

The case does not indicate any immediate change to healthcare access for foreign residents or visitors. However, expatriates using private or public medical services should continue requesting clear quotations, invoices and details of recommended equipment or treatment. Companies importing or supplying medical products must ensure that licensing, customs declarations and accounting records comply fully with Vietnamese law.

3 September 2026