Importing cosmetics into Vietnam is a growing trend among international beauty brands. However, navigating the cosmetic product notification process can be challenging, especially when determining whether similar products can be grouped under a single notification. This guide provides everything you need to know about the legal basis, conditions, and benefits of submitting one cosmetic notification for multiple products in Vietnam.

What Is Cosmetic Product Notification in Vietnam?

According to Circular No. 06/2011/TT-BYT issued by the Ministry of Health, all imported cosmetics must undergo a notification process before being allowed on the market. This process ensures that cosmetic products comply with Vietnamese law and the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive.

Each cosmetic product must be registered through the online Vietnam Drug Administration (DAV) system or via an authorized local representative.

When Can You Register Multiple Products in One Notification?

Vietnamese regulations allow companies to submit a single notification for multiple products if they share the same base formula, with only slight differences such as:

• Color
• Fragrance
• Packaging size

In these cases, the products can be considered variants of the same formula and may be grouped into one notification file.

✔ Conditions for Grouping:

• Products must have the same commercial name or be part of the same product line.
• The manufacturer and country of origin must be the same.
• Only the fragrance or coloring agents differ—the rest of the formula must remain identical.
• The grouped variants must be listed clearly in the notification form, using the phrase “may contain” for variable ingredients.

📌 Example: A lip balm with identical ingredients, available in strawberry, vanilla, and mint flavors, may be grouped in one notification.

When Is Separate Notification Required?

There are specific cases where each product must be registered separately, including:

• Different product formulas (even minor differences in active or inactive ingredients)
• Products manufactured in different locations
• Perfumes and hair dyes, which must be notified per color or fragrance variant
• Products with different names or intended uses

Legal Reference

The guidance for this grouping practice is based on:

• Circular 06/2011/TT-BYT
• ASEAN Cosmetic Directive
• Official interpretation from Vietnam’s Drug Administration

Authorities may require supporting documents, such as product formula tables, technical documents, or sample labels, to verify the eligibility for grouping.

Benefits of Grouping Products in One Notification

Grouping similar products under one notification provides many advantages:

• ✅ Saves time and cost on administrative processing
• ✅ Simplifies label management for similar items
• ✅ Speeds up market entry for multiple product variants
• ✅ Reduces the risk of errors in duplicated documentation

However, if done incorrectly, it can lead to delays or rejection from the authorities. That’s why professional support is highly recommended.

Need Help? Let Green NRJ Guide You

At Green NRJ, we specialize in assisting foreign cosmetic brands with the registration and notification of products in Vietnam. We ensure that your dossiers comply with local regulations and optimize your product launch timeline.

🔧 Our Services Include:

• Reviewing your cosmetic product formulas
• Preparing compliant notification documents
• Advising on whether your products can be grouped
• Acting as your local representative in Vietnam
• Consulting on labeling and import procedures

📩 Contact Green NRJ today to simplify your product notification process and enter the Vietnamese market with confidence.

Summary

Cosmetic products with the same base formula but different colors or fragrances can often be grouped under a single notification in Vietnam—if they meet specific conditions. Understanding these rules can help your business save resources and expand faster in a competitive beauty market.

Related Articles:

• Comprehensive Guide to Cosmetic Registration in Vietnam