Having an import license in Vietnam is crucial for running efficient wholesale and retail businesses. Thanks to the country’s strategic geographical location and robust infrastructure development, its has also evolved into a popular trading hub for foreign companies.
In this article, we will provide you with a comprehensive guide to import licenses in Vietnam including key regulations, requirements, types of licenses, and how to start importing goods to the country.
Key Regulations for Importing Goods to Vietnam
Product Registration for Regulated Products
Certain products require registration with relevant Vietnamese authorities before they can be imported. Vietnam is governed by three primary regulatory agencies responsible for ensuring the quality and safety of goods intended for consumption in the local market:
- Vietnam Food Safety Authority – Oversees imported food safety by implementing import rules and standards
- Drug Administration of Vietnam – Essential for controlling the import of medications to guarantee they are high-quality, safe, and effective
- Ministry of Science and Technology - Responsible for facilitating and regulating the import of technology and equipment
- Ministry of Information and Communications – Manages digital infrastructure and regulations, which greatly affects the import of digital content, services, and technology
These regulatory bodies work to safeguard public interest and prevent unsafe or substandard products from entering the market. Here are categories that require product registration before importation to Vietnam:
- Food and beverage
- Cosmetics
- Drugs and Pharmaceuticals
- Medical Devices
- Consumer Electronics
Prohibited and Restricted Products
As a business, it is important to have your finger on the pulse on which products are prohibited and restricted from crossing the border. According to Circular No.34/2013/TT-BCT of the Ministry of Industry, here are some of the products that companies cannot import to or export from Vietnam:
- Cigars/tobacco
- Petroleum oils
- Newspaper and journals/books
- Second-hand items (including electronics and automotive)
- Weapons
Emerhub can help you determine what import regulations apply to the types of products you are looking to bring in for your operations. Our team can also helo you navigate the entire product registration process in Vietnam.
Requirements for Obtaining an Import License in Vietnam
Prior to importing goods to Vietnam, it’s important to secure the necessary licenses that correspond to the intended use of said products. Here’s a quick summary of essential certificates that Emerhub can help you secure to start importing to Vietnam:
Investment Registration Certificate (IRC)
An Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) is a fundamental requirement for foreign investors who want to import goods into Vietnam. It serves as official recognition of an investment project and is essential for compliance with Vietnamese Customs in both business-to-business (B2B) and business-to-consumer (B2C) transactions.
An IRC outlines key details about the investment including the investor’s identity, project objectives, duration, and capital commitment. It is issued by the Department of Planning and Investment (DPI) or the respective Management Boards of Industrial Parks, Export-Processing Zones, Hi-Tech Zones, and Economic Zones.
Business Registration Certificate (BRC)
The Business Registration Certificate (BRC), otherwise known as the Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC) in Vietnam, is a document that formally recognises a business’ legal existence and allows it to operate within the country.
Issued by the Department of Planning and Investment (DPI), a BRC contains all the necessary information about the business including its business registration number, business address, legal representatives, and charter capital.
Trading License
For companies engaged in retail or direct sales to consumers, a Trading License is mandatory for obtaining an import license in Vietnam. It helps maintain order in the marketplace and protects consumer rights.
The Trading License in Vietnam is governed by Decree 09/2018/ND-CP, which outlines the regulatory framework for foreign-invested enterprises engaged in the sale of goods and related activities.
This license is issued by the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT) and Department of Industry and Trade, which specifies:
- The range of retail activities permitted
- Types of products that can be sold
- Whether the business model is physical or online
B2C enterprises are generally required to obtain a retail license for every product. However, if they intend to sell specific regulated products, they must obtain an additional specific retail license for each category, such as alcoholic beverages, tobacco, and other restricted goods.
How to Apply for an Import License in Vietnam
To help expedite the import license process, Emerhub can ensure compliance with local regulations. Here’s how we can help you navigate the application process effectively:
- Understanding the Types of Import Licenses: In Vietnam, there are two primary types of import licenses:
- Automatic Import License – required for goods that pose minimal risk to public health and safety. The application process is straightforward, allowing businesses to import certain categories of products quickly.
- Non-Automatic Import License – necessary for goods that require closer scrutiny due to potential health, safety, or environmental concerns. The application process is more detailed and may take longer to process.
- Automatic Import License – required for goods that pose minimal risk to public health and safety. The application process is straightforward, allowing businesses to import certain categories of products quickly.
- Non-Automatic Import License – necessary for goods that require closer scrutiny due to potential health, safety, or environmental concerns. The application process is more detailed and may take longer to process.
- Gather Required Documents: Before applying for an import license, you will need to prepare several essential documents:
- Investment Registration Certificate (IRC)
- Business Registration Certificate (BRC)
- Retail/Trading License
- Product-Specific Documentation
- Investment Registration Certificate (IRC)
- Business Registration Certificate (BRC)
- Retail/Trading License
- Product-Specific Documentation
- Submit Your Application: Emerhub can assist you in submitting your application through the appropriate channels while ensuring that all documents are complete and compliant with local regulations.
- Review Process: Once submitted, the licensing authority will review your application. Emerhub monitors this process and can help address any requests for additional information from regulatory bodies. After approval, you will receive your import license, allowing you to proceed with importing your goods into Vietnam.
Partnering with an Importer of Record Service: a simplified alternative to the Import License in Vietnam
To successfully import goods to Vietnam, foreign companies must set up a trading company in the country and secure your IRC and BRC. You will then need to plan logistics for sending your goods to Vietnam and acquire your import license. You'll also have to plan storage in the country and, in the case of regulated goods, apply for product registration.
With an importer of record, you can bypass this process. As your consignee, Emerhub will pick up your shipment and oversee all the key steps. Our service already holds the necessary licenses and permits and has a strong logistics network in Southeast Asia. With an Importer of Record service, you can:
- Ensure compliance with all local regulations regarding product registration;
- Benefit from expert guidance throughout the importation process, minimizing risks and delays with customs clearance;
- Gain access to tailored solutions for your planned activities, ranging from local logistics to storage options;
- Import goods virtually immediately on an ad hoc or recurrant basis.
By partnering with Emerhub, you can focus on your core operations while relying on experienced professionals to handle the complexities of importing goods into Vietnam.
Want to start importing goods to Vietnam? Contact us via the form below to get in touch with our local experts!