Nuclear energy is attracting renewed attention across Southeast Asia, creating opportunities for international collaboration in technology, project development and specialist advisory support.

Prospect Law’s John Ireland attended Nuclear Energy in ASEAN: Regional Developments and Vietnam’s Nuclear Roadmap, a webinar organised by Nuclear Business Platform (NBP) and the Vietnam Atomic Energy Institute (VINATOM) on 22 October 2026. The session explored developments across the region, alongside a dedicated briefing on Vietnam’s nuclear programme.

For John, the discussion reinforced a clear message: the nuclear renaissance is a global phenomenon, with Southeast Asia becoming an increasingly important part of that picture.

A growing regional opportunity

Both large conventional nuclear power plants and small modular reactors (SMRs) are being considered across the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) region. Vietnam, Indonesia and the Philippines are advancing their ambitions, while Malaysia and Thailand are also exploring routes towards nuclear deployment.

Singapore continues to assess whether nuclear energy could form part of its future energy mix. Although it has not made a deployment decision, it is developing the expertise and institutional capabilities needed to evaluate the option, with an International Atomic Energy Agency infrastructure review planned to begin in 2027.

These countries are at different stages, but the direction of travel points towards growing demand for technical expertise, regulatory capability and international partnerships.

International partnerships

The United States is active in the region, with civil nuclear cooperation arrangements known as “123 Agreements” in place with several ASEAN countries. These agreements provide a framework for peaceful nuclear cooperation, subject to applicable safeguards and controls.

John sees scope for businesses to investigate partnerships with US organisations as regional programmes develop. The opportunity extends beyond reactor supply to the expertise and services required to prepare and deliver nuclear projects.

Vietnam’s nuclear roadmap

Vietnam is progressing plans for two VVER-1200 reactors at Ninh Thuan 1, with a combined capacity of approximately 2,400 MW. An intergovernmental agreement signed with Russia in March 2026 established a framework for cooperation on the project.

For Ninh Thuan 2, technology selection and financing remain central issues. Nuclear Business Platform has reported progress on a Korean financing memorandum of understanding, indicating that potential delivery arrangements are being explored.

Vietnam’s programme also illustrates the work required to turn nuclear ambitions into operating assets. Project owner Vietnam Electricity has identified regulatory development, financing and workforce capability among the major challenges facing Ninh Thuan 1.

Turning ambition into delivery

John’s assessment is that the opportunity for international cooperation is real. Realising it will depend on matching technical solutions with credible financing, effective regulation and clear contractual arrangements.

For organisations considering involvement in ASEAN nuclear projects, understanding each country’s stage of development and the support it needs will be an essential starting point.

Prospect Law’s nuclear energy team supports clients with the legal and commercial challenges surrounding nuclear projects. To discuss your organisation’s plans, contact info@prospectlaw.co.uk.