By Francesco Guarascio and Khanh Vu

HANOI (Reuters) -Investors in Vietnam in energy, telecommunications, construction and other sectors, will need police approval for projects, under a major reform meant to boost security and ensure the “absolute leadership” of the ruling Communist Party, a draft decree says.

The proposed text from the public security ministry, which is still subject to changes, could increase compliance costs for business in the Southeast Asian nation while significantly expanding the powers of the security apparatus.

“In socio-economic development, security must be ensured, without sacrificing national interests for economic benefits,” said the proposal published on the security ministry’s website, which other ministries can comment on until September 22.

It could th

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