Legal Challenges of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships: A Comparative Study of Neighboring States and Implications for Vietnam

International Maritime Organization and countries have been paying special attention to Maritime Autonomous Surface Vessels (MASS). MASS is assessed to be able to bring benefits to the world maritime industry, but it also raises legal issues that need to be further studied and improved. Countries in the region have many activities related to MASS, typically issuing MASS standards, building MASS test sea areas, smart ports, sandboxes, etc. This study analyzes and evaluates in detail the policies, strategies and regulations of some typical countries in the region on MASS. In addition, the article also analyzes and synthesizes the current regulations of international conventions, whether or not they are suitable for MASS. From that analysis, the article presents experiences for Vietnam as well as other countries in the region to shorten the time to build and improve regulations for MASS. Develop action strategies for the construction, testing and development of MASS in practice. At the same time, the article also emphasizes the need to further strengthen regional cooperation in the ASEAN region.