Vietnam’s health-conscious population is driving a booming market for food supplements. With increasing demand, businesses looking to import and sell dietary supplements in Vietnam must navigate specific legal and regulatory frameworks. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you enter this lucrative market while ensuring compliance with local laws.

1. What Are Food Supplements?

Food supplements, also known as dietary supplements, are products designed to provide additional nutrients that may not be consumed in sufficient quantities through diet alone. They typically contain vitamins, minerals, amino acids, herbs, or other botanical extracts and are available in various forms, including tablets, capsules, powders, liquids, and gummies.

Food Supplements vs. Medicines

It is essential to differentiate food supplements from medicines. While medicines are designed to diagnose, treat, or prevent diseases, food supplements are meant to support general health and well-being. They cannot claim to cure or treat medical conditions. Certain supplements containing high-dose vitamins, hormones, or herbal extracts with medicinal effects may be classified as pharmaceuticals, requiring additional approvals. Mislabeling or making false medical claims can result in strict penalties under Vietnamese law.

2. Understanding Vietnam’s Regulations on Food Supplements

Before importing and selling food supplements in Vietnam, it is crucial to understand the country’s legal requirements. The Ministry of Health (MOH) and the Vietnam Food Administration (VFA) regulate food supplements under the Law on Food Safety.

Key Regulatory Requirements:

• Product Registration: All food supplements must be registered with the VFA before distribution.
• Compliance with Labeling Laws: Labels must be in Vietnamese and include details such as ingredients, usage instructions, and expiration date.
• Certificate of Free Sale (CFS): Required for imported products to confirm they are legally sold in the country of origin.
• Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) Compliance: Products must be manufactured following GMP standards.
• Advertising Regulations: Any health claims must be approved by the authorities.
• Import and Distribution Licenses: Companies must obtain the necessary licenses before bringing products into Vietnam.

3. Steps to Import and Distribute Food Supplements into Vietnam

To successfully import and distribute food supplements in Vietnam, follow these three key steps:

Step 1: Establish a Legal Business Entity

Foreign investors must set up a legally recognized trading company before importing and distributing food supplements. This process involves:

• Registering a business: Obtain a Business Registration Certificate (BRC) and an Investment Registration Certificate (IRC) from the Department of Planning and Investment (DPI).
• Determining the business structure: Choose between a 100% foreign-owned company or a joint venture with a local partner.
• Appointing a legal representative: This individual must be a Vietnamese resident or hold a valid work permit and visa.
• Setting up an office: A virtual or physical address is required during registration.
• Defining capital investment: A foreign-owned trading company typically needs a minimum capital of $10,000 – $50,000, depending on its scale and business activities.

A wholesale trading company can sell products to other businesses (B2B). However, to sell directly to consumers (B2C), a Retail License from the Department of Industry and Trade is required.

Step 2: Import Food Supplements into Vietnam

Once the business entity is established, you can start importing food supplements by following these steps:

Identify the Correct HS Code

Food supplements are generally classified under HS Code 210690, but specific products (e.g., herbal extracts, protein powders) may fall under different subcategories. Defining the correct HS code ensures compliance with import regulations and determines applicable taxes.

Obtain a Certificate of Food Safety

All food supplements must receive a Certificate of Food Safety from the Ministry of Health before importation. Each product requires a separate certificate, and the process includes:

• Testing by an authorized agency such as QUATEST 3 or the National Institute for Food Control (NIFC).
• Submitting an application to the Ministry of Health.
• Ensuring compliance with hygiene and safety standards.

Unlike previous regulations requiring certificate renewal every three years, the updated law now grants indefinite validity.

Customs Clearance Process

After obtaining the Certificate of Food Safety, importers must:

• Submit an application for customs clearance.
• Provide required documents, including invoices, packing lists, Certificates of Origin (COO), and Bills of Lading.
• Undergo random customs inspections (if selected for “Red Line” clearance, which involves physical checks).

Customs clearance typically takes two business days, but additional inspections may cause delays.

Step 3: Distribute Imported Food Supplements

After successfully importing food supplements, businesses can distribute them through various channels:

Wholesale Distribution

Wholesale operations allow B2B sales to pharmacies, health stores, and wellness centers.

Retail Sales (B2C)

To sell directly to consumers, businesses must:

• Obtain a Retail License from the Department of Industry and Trade.
• Submit a business plan outlining operations, financial strategies, and liquidity management.
• Provide tax clearance documentation if the company is over one year old.

The Retail License process takes approximately 10 business days but may extend up to three months due to additional document requests.

E-commerce & Digital Marketing

Selling through e-commerce platforms (Shopee, Lazada, Tiki) and social media (Facebook, Zalo, TikTok) is a popular strategy in Vietnam. However, all advertisements must comply with Vietnam’s strict marketing and labeling regulations.

Retail Store Setup Considerations

For businesses looking to establish a physical store, consider:

• Selecting high-traffic locations such as shopping malls or health districts.
• Ensuring store compliance with health and safety regulations.
• Training staff on product knowledge and regulatory compliance.

4. Common Challenges & How to Overcome Them

Regulatory Compliance

Navigating complex regulations can be challenging. Partnering with a local consultant or legal expert can help ensure full compliance.

Market Competition

The Vietnamese supplement market is highly competitive. Differentiating your product through quality, branding, and pricing is crucial.

Consumer Trust & Awareness

Vietnamese consumers are becoming more discerning about health products. Providing transparent information and third-party testing results can build trust.

Supply Chain & Logistics

Ensuring a smooth supply chain involves:

• Partnering with reliable logistics providers.
• Managing inventory efficiently to avoid shortages or overstocking.
• Complying with import tax regulations.

5. Conclusion

The food supplement industry in Vietnam offers significant opportunities for importers and distributors. By understanding regulatory requirements, optimizing distribution channels, and ensuring compliance with marketing laws, businesses can successfully tap into this growing market.

If you’re ready to enter Vietnam’s booming food supplement market, our expert team can help you navigate regulations, streamline imports, and set up distribution channels efficiently. Contact us today to get started!

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