Cooperative Members’ Right to Information: Scope & Penalties

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Under Point i, Clause 1, Article 31 of the Law on Cooperatives 2023 (17/2023/QH15, effective from 01/7/2024), an official member of a cooperative has the right to be provided with necessary information related to the cooperative’s operations, and to receive training and professional development supporting the cooperative’s operations.

The organizational, management, and operational principles of cooperatives in Article 8 of the Law on Cooperatives 2023 also provide that members are provided with full, timely, and accurate information on production, business, finance, income distribution, and other contents as provided in the cooperative’s charter.

1. Is a cooperative penalized for not providing information to members?

Yes. Under Point c, Clause 1, Article 65 of Decree 122/2021/ND-CP (amended by Decree 288/2026/ND-CP, effective from 21/7/2026), failing to provide information, or providing incomplete, untimely, or inaccurate information on production, business, finance, income distribution, and other prescribed contents is subject to a fine of VND 20,000,000 to VND 30,000,000.

In addition, under Point b, Clause 3, Article 65 of this Decree, the violating cooperative is subject to a remedial measure: being compelled to provide, or supplement with complete and accurate, information on production, business, finance, income distribution, and other prescribed contents.

Note: the above fine applies to organizations; where an individual violates, the fine equals 1/2 of the fine for an organization (Clause 2, Article 4 of Decree 122/2021/ND-CP, as amended by Decree 288/2026/ND-CP).

Notes on applying current legal provisions

This article belongs to the Cooperative Knowledge group and is presented for reference, helping readers understand the legal issue at an overview level before preparing dossiers or conducting transactions.

Legal provisions may change depending on timing, locality, dossier type, and specific circumstances. Where it is necessary to determine the exact legal basis applicable to your dossier, please contact an ANT Legal lawyer at 0966.475.966 for review and advice before proceeding.

Common risks to note

  • Not providing, or providing incomplete, untimely, or inaccurate information to members.
  • Confusing the old fine (VND 10–20 million) before Decree 288/2026/ND-CP took effect.
  • The cooperative’s charter not clearly providing the contents and forms of information provided to members.
  • Signing, filing, or conducting transactions without fully assessing legal risks.

How can ANT Legal help?

ANT Legal assists in reviewing specific situations, checking dossiers, identifying the applicable legal basis, advising on handling plans, and representing you in working with individuals, organizations, or competent authorities when necessary.

For quick advice, you may contact a lawyer at 0966.475.966.

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