Chemicals import into Vietnam requires businesses to strictly comply with legal regulations. In order for the licensing process to be smooth and quick, this article will provide detailed instructions on the necessary steps, from preparing documents to the procedures that need to be performed.

1. Understand the chemicals to be imported

• Purpose of use: The purpose of using the chemical will affect the type of license and documents that need to be prepared.
• Chemical classification: Clearly identify the type of chemical to be imported (hazardous chemicals, precursor chemicals, …) to determine the correct applicable regulations. Determining the HS code when importing is an extremely important task. You can look up the HS code on the following website: https://vntr.moit.gov.vn/vi/search

2. Carefully study the legal regulations

• Decree 113/2017/ND-CP: This is an important legal document regulating chemical management. Carefully study the regulations on the list of banned and restricted chemicals, conditions for chemical trading, licensing procedures, etc.
• Guiding documents: Update circulars and decisions guiding implementation to understand the latest changes.

3. Prepare a complete dossier

Application for a chemical import license includes:

• Application for a chemical import license (according to the form): Written according to the prescribed form, clearly stating information about the enterprise, type of chemical, quantity, purpose of use, etc.
• Business registration certificate: Valid copy
• Certificate of eligibility to trade in goods that are toxic chemicals and products containing toxic chemicals: Valid copy
• Chemical import contract: Valid copy.
• Material Safety Data Sheets (MSDS): Original and Vietnamese translation.
• Set of shipping documents of the chemical supplier: Invoice, Packing list, Bill of lading, Customs declaration, C/O, COA…

Application forms and other forms can be downloaded from the website of the Department of Chemicals (Ministry of Industry and Trade). 

4. Where to submit chemicals import dossiers?

• Submission place: Place of registration for chemical declaration at the Department of Chemicals (Ministry of Industry and Trade) through the national single window information portal.
• Processing time: According to regulations, the processing time for dossiers is 07 working days from the date of receiving complete and valid dossiers.

5. Customs procedures for chemicals import

• Customs declaration: After obtaining the license, the enterprise shall make a customs declaration according to regulations.
• Goods inspection: Customs will conduct an inspection of the goods to ensure compliance with regulations on quality and safety.
• Customs clearance: If the goods are valid, the enterprise will be allowed to clear customs.

Costs

Costs include:

• License fee: According to state regulations.
• Service fee: If using the services of a consulting company.
• Transportation and storage costs: Costs incurred during the transportation and storage of goods.

This article is for reference only and is not a substitute for legal advice. Businesses should consult legal experts for specific advice for each case.

>> Read more: Notes when importing chemicals to Vietnam