If you’re in the cosmetic business in Vietnam, you’ve probably heard of the Product Information File (PIF) – but do you know how crucial it is?

The PIF is not just paperwork. It’s a mandatory legal document required for every cosmetic product distributed in the Vietnamese market. Without a complete PIF, your product could be pulled off the shelves — and your company could face serious legal consequences.

In this article, we’ll explain what the PIF is, why it’s essential, and how to prepare it properly according to Vietnam’s current regulations.

1. What is a Product Information File (PIF)?

A Product Information File (PIF) is a comprehensive technical dossier that contains detailed information about a cosmetic product, including:

• Manufacturer and distributor information

• Product origin and safety reports of ingredients

• Production process documentation

• Evidence of product claims (function, benefits, safety on human use)

The PIF must be maintained at the company’s head office and made available to authorities upon request. It serves both as a compliance tool and a product management record for regulatory bodies such as the Ministry of Health.

2. Why is the PIF Mandatory?

According to Circular 06/2011/TT-BYT on cosmetic management and Decree 117/2020/NĐ-CP on administrative penalties in the healthcare sector, every cosmetic product must have a valid and up-to-date PIF while being circulated in Vietnam.

Failing to provide a PIF can result in:

• Revocation of your Cosmetic Product Notification Receipt

• Forced product recalls

• Fines and suspension of sales

In short, no PIF, no legal distribution.

3.  What Does a Complete PIF Include?

The PIF consists of four main parts, as outlined by ASEAN Cosmetic Directive guidelines and enforced by Vietnamese regulations:

– Administrative Documents and Product Summary

• General product description

• Name and function of the product

• Manufacturer and distributor details

• Responsible person for safety evaluation

– Raw Material Quality Data

• Ingredient list with INCI names

• Safety and technical specifications of each raw material

• Certificates of Analysis (CoA)

– Finished Product Quality Data

• Production methods

• Quality control and stability testing reports

• Microbiological and physical-chemical parameters

– Safety and Efficacy Information

• Safety assessment by a qualified professional (toxicologist or pharmacist)

• Clinical trials, dermatological tests (if available)

• Evidence supporting product claims (whitening, anti-aging, moisturizing, etc.)

4. Legal Basis for PIF Requirements

The legal foundation for PIF compliance in Vietnam includes:

• Circular 06/2011/TT-BYT – Governing the management of cosmetics under the Ministry of Health

• Decree 117/2020/NĐ-CP – Specifies administrative sanctions for violations in health regulations, including the absence of a PIF

Businesses are legally responsible for maintaining a valid PIF for each cosmetic product and ensuring all information is truthful, complete, and updated regularly.

5. Who Needs to Prepare and Keep the PIF?

• Distributors and importers of cosmetics in Vietnam

• Local manufacturers producing cosmetics for the domestic market

• Foreign cosmetic brands selling through authorized representatives in Vietnam

The PIF must be stored in either physical or electronic form at the head office of the responsible business entity and must be available within 72 hours upon request from the Department of Health or related authorities.

6. How We Can Help

Preparing a full PIF can be complex — especially if you’re managing multiple SKUs or imported products. Our company offers:

• Full PIF creation and review services

• Consultation on safety and compliance

• Support in document collection, testing, and technical writing

• Assistance in dealing with regulatory inspections

We ensure your product meets all PIF requirements and stays compliant — so you can focus on building your brand and gaining customer trust.

📞 Need help creating a compliant PIF for your cosmetics?
Contact us today and let our experts handle the paperwork while you grow your brand with confidence!

Related Articles:

• Comprehensive Guide to Cosmetic Registration in Vietnam

• How to Import and Sell Cosmetics in Vietnam

• Comparison Between Establishing a Company and Using a Cosmetic Notification Holder Service in Vietnam