Cosmetic Import Procedures in Vietnam: A Complete Guide for Businesses (2026)

Cosmetic import procedures are among the most important processes that businesses should prepare carefully before bringing products into the Vietnamese market. In addition to import documentation, companies must comply with regulations on cosmetic product notification, product labeling, import duties, and customs documentation to minimize risks, optimize costs, and ensure smooth business operations.

Why Should Businesses Choose Official Cosmetic Imports?

In recent years, regulatory authorities have strengthened inspections of imported cosmetics, particularly products that lack complete legal documentation or fail to comply with regulations on cosmetic product notifications and labeling. At the same time, regulations governing electronic invoices, accounting records, and payment documentation have become increasingly stringent, making unofficial import channels significantly more risky for businesses.

For companies aiming for long-term growth, importing cosmetics through official channels is not only a legal requirement but also enables products to circulate legally in the Vietnamese market, qualify for VAT invoices, and build trust with business partners and consumers. In addition, businesses can more easily expand their distribution networks, collaborate with retail chains, and grow their e-commerce channels without encountering legal documentation issues. Therefore, following the correct cosmetic import procedures from the outset helps businesses save time, reduce unnecessary costs, and minimize risks during customs inspections and post-clearance audits.

Cosmetic Product Notification – A Critical Requirement Before Marketing Your Products

Throughout the cosmetic import process, the cosmetic product notification is one of the most important requirements businesses must pay close attention to. The notification dossier not only serves as the legal basis for placing products on the Vietnamese market but also has a direct impact on customs clearance and subsequent business operations.

One of the most common mistakes is inconsistency between the ingredient list stated in the Cosmetic Product Notification Form and the information displayed on the product label. Every ingredient must be presented consistently across all documents. Even minor discrepancies in ingredient names, order, or wording may result in requests to amend the dossier or resubmit the notification in accordance with regulations.

In addition to ingredients, the product claims stated on the notification form must also match those shown on the product label. Furthermore, product claims must remain within the legally permitted scope of cosmetics. Claims suggesting therapeutic or medicinal effects, or those that could mislead consumers into believing the product treats diseases, may cause the application to be rejected, require amendments, or lead to regulatory penalties. Preparing an accurate notification dossier from the beginning can significantly shorten the approval process and prevent unnecessary delays.

Cosmetic Labeling Requirements

Product labeling is one of the aspects most frequently inspected by regulatory authorities for imported cosmetics. Labels must include essential information such as the product name, intended use, ingredients, net content, manufacturer’s name, manufacturing facility address, country of origin, manufacturing date, expiration date, and batch number. Missing or inaccurate labeling information may require businesses to revise labels or encounter difficulties when distributing products in the market. Therefore, companies should carefully review label content before importation to ensure consistency between the product label and all supporting legal documents.

Review Import Documents to Minimize Customs Clearance Risks

A complete and accurate import dossier not only satisfies customs requirements but also facilitates a smoother customs clearance process. Businesses should verify that the actual products are fully consistent with all import documents, including manufacturing dates, expiration dates, batch numbers, and other identifying information. These details must match across the products, import documentation, and all related records.

If inconsistencies are identified during customs inspections, authorities may require the importer to provide explanations or submit additional documentation. This can significantly extend customs clearance times and lead to additional storage and demurrage costs. For this reason, reviewing all documentation thoroughly before customs declaration is a crucial step in reducing import risks.

Take Advantage of Certificates of Origin (C/O) to Optimize Cosmetic Import Duties

Import duties on cosmetics are determined based on the applicable HS code and the product’s country of origin. Since each product category may be subject to different duty rates, correctly identifying the HS code for imported cosmetics is essential for calculating import tax obligations accurately.

For certain cosmetic products, standard import duty rates may range from approximately 20% to 27%, depending on the applicable HS code. However, if the goods meet the requirements under applicable free trade agreements (FTAs) and are accompanied by a valid Certificate of Origin (C/O), businesses may qualify for preferential import duty rates. In some cases, the import duty can even be reduced to 0%, resulting in substantial cost savings.

In practice, many businesses are uncertain about which type of Certificate of Origin is applicable to their cosmetic products in order to receive preferential tariff treatment. Reviewing eligibility before importing allows businesses to choose the most advantageous import strategy and avoid missing valuable tax incentives.

Why Are Imported Cosmetics Frequently Subject to Customs Valuation Consultation?

Cosmetics are among the product categories that customs authorities frequently select for customs valuation consultation because international market prices can vary considerably. When the declared customs value differs significantly from customs reference databases, businesses may be required to explain the declared value or provide additional documents to support the transaction price.

If the supporting documentation is incomplete or insufficient to substantiate the declared value, customs clearance may be delayed, and businesses could incur additional unexpected costs. Therefore, preparing comprehensive commercial documents, payment records, and supporting evidence from the beginning can substantially reduce the likelihood of customs valuation consultation.

Green NRJ Provides Comprehensive Cosmetic Import Services

Cosmetic import procedures involve much more than customs declarations. Businesses must also complete cosmetic product notifications, determine the correct HS code, apply Certificates of Origin to obtain preferential tariff treatment, verify product labeling, and prepare all required legal documentation.

With extensive experience supporting businesses in tax consulting, accounting, and import-export compliance, Green NRJ works closely with clients throughout every stage of the process. Our services include document preparation and review, cosmetic product notification consulting, Certificate of Origin verification, assistance with customs valuation issues for imported cosmetics, and completion of import procedures in full compliance with Vietnamese regulations. Our goal is to help businesses save time, optimize costs, and minimize operational risks.

Conclusion

Cosmetic import procedures become much simpler when businesses prepare the required documentation correctly and comply with all applicable regulations. Contact Green NRJ for comprehensive consulting and end-to-end support to optimize costs and accelerate your cosmetic import process.