Food manufacturers aiming to enter Vietnam's market now face stricter regulatory requirements, as the government implements new rules making product standard declarations mandatory before sales authorization. The updated regulations eliminate previous practices of post-market compliance, requiring complete documentation prior to market entry.
Expanded Scope of Regulated Products
The revised framework applies to a comprehensive range of food categories:
- Processed and prepackaged food products
- Food additives and nutritional fortifiers
- Health supplements and dietary products
- Medical foods and special dietary items
- Nutritional products for children under 36 months
Documentation Requirements and Processing
Companies must submit two critical documents through Vietnam's online portal:
- Standardized product declaration forms
- Laboratory test reports from ISO/IEC 17025 accredited facilities (valid for 12 months)
Vietnamese authorities will complete reviews within 15 business days. Automatic publication occurs if no response is provided within this period. However, businesses remain fully liable for the accuracy of submitted materials and product safety compliance.
E-Commerce Compliance Measures
The regulations introduce specific requirements for online food sales:
- Mandatory display of declaration information on product pages
- Clear visibility for consumer verification
- Enhanced platform oversight responsibilities
Exemptions and Market Implications
Four product categories qualify for exemption:
- Goods exclusively for export processing
- Products not intended for Vietnamese consumption
- Humanitarian aid shipments
- Research and testing materials
The updated regulations significantly extend market preparation timelines while increasing testing costs and documentation requirements for most food importers. Industry analysts note these changes reflect Vietnam's efforts to strengthen consumer protection and align with international food safety standards.