There are several governmental laws and regulations implemented. In Laos, the Irrawaddy Dolphins are legally protecting from hunting, capture and trade, with fines and imprisonment as punishment. In Vietnam, the dolphins are protected by a decree of the national assembly. The Government has implemented a law that gives authorities greater power to enforce the fishery regulations in place.

WWF supported a ban on the international live trade of the Irrawaddy Dolphins by the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora (CITES).

In addition, other research projects have been carried out in the other areas as well. An example is the Malampaya Sound Research and Conservation Project in Philippines, which aims to sustainably manage the fisheries of Malampaya Sound, and to effectively protect the Irrawaddy Dolphin population in the area.