The deputy prime minister of the Government of the Socialist Republic of Vietnam, known as the deputy chairman of the Council of Ministers from 1981 to 1992, is one of the highest offices within the Central Government. The deputy prime minister has throughout its history been responsible for helping the prime minister to handle Vietnam's internal policies. Since Vietnam is a one-party state, with the Communist Party of Vietnam being the sole party allowed by the constitution, all the deputy prime ministers of the Democratic Republic and the Socialist Republic have been members of the party while holding office.

The Prime Minister of Vietnam, is the head of government of Vietnam who presides over the meetings of the Government. The prime minister directs the work of government members, and may propose deputy prime ministers to the National Assembly.