This study critically examines the integration of ILO Convention C111 into Vietnamese labour law, specifically examining its impact on sex-based discrimination. Employing feminist legal methodology, it assesses the reflection of the Convention’s anti-discrimination principles in national legislation and their effectiveness in promoting workplace gender equality in Vietnam. Preliminary findings suggest that, despite the Convention’s influence, there are significant obstacles to the full achievement of its objectives, largely due to socio-cultural and economic factors. The paper underscores the practical challenges of aligning the international labour standards with local laws preventing the implementation of C111’s provisions in combating gender-based discrimination in an employment setting. It argues that achieving true gender equality in employment transcends the simple adoption of international norms; it necessitates a holistic and profound approach. These insights are crucial for enhancing labour laws so as to foster genuine gender equality and emphasising the importance of practical implementation alongside the harmonisation of international standards.