How to Import Lipsticks into Vietnam (2026): Proven Licensing, HS Codes, Taxes & Labeling Guide

Import Lipsticks into Vietnam is opening up many opportunities as the cosmetics market develops rapidly and the demand for beauty products increases. However, to legally circulate these products, businesses need to fully comply with regulations related to cosmetic product notification, HS code classification, import tax, customs procedures, and product labelling. This article will help you understand the entire process, from preparing the necessary documents to customs clearance, in order to minimize risks and ensure compliance with the Ministry of Health’s regulations.

Why is cosmetic product notification a mandatory step?

When it comes to importing lipstick, many businesses immediately think of shipping or taxes. However, the deciding factor in whether goods are cleared through customs lies in the cosmetic product notification process.

In Vietnam, lipstick is classified as a cosmetic product, so it is mandatory to have a notification number before import. This procedure is handled by the Drug Administration of Vietnam – Ministry of Health. Without this number, even if the goods have arrived at the port, businesses cannot open a customs declaration to retrieve them.

It’s important to note that lipstick often has many variations, most commonly differing in color or scent. If these variations have the same basic formula, the same product name, and only differ in elements that don’t change the product’s nature (such as color), businesses can register them together in one registration dossier. This saves time and costs, but it’s crucial to ensure accurate declarations from the outset to avoid being required to separate the dossiers later.

HS Code and Applicable Import Duties

When importing lipsticks into Vietnam, getting the HS code right is more important than it might seem at first. It doesn’t just affect how your product is classified—it directly impacts the import duty, VAT, and whether you can benefit from preferential tax rates under trade agreements.

In most cases, lipsticks fall under HS code 33041000, which covers lip make-up products. Under this classification, the standard VAT is 10%, while the MFN import duty is typically around 20% and can go up to 30% depending on the circumstances.

That said, the final HS code is always subject to confirmation by Vietnam Customs during the clearance process. If the declared code doesn’t match their assessment, it can lead to additional taxes, penalties, or delays in releasing the shipment.

When calculating the total import cost, businesses usually need to factor in both import duty and VAT. The import duty, in particular, can vary significantly depending on the country of origin. If the shipment is supported by a valid Certificate of Origin, it may qualify for reduced rates under various free trade agreements.

Customs Clearance Procedures: Speed ​​Depends on Documentation

After completing the notification, the next step is customs clearance. If the documentation is complete and accurate, this process is usually quite fast, taking only about 1–3 working days.

The required documents include the customs declaration form, commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, and cosmetic product notification number. If you wish to benefit from preferential tax rates, a certificate of origin is also required.

In reality, most delays are not due to complex procedures, but rather to inconsistent or missing documents. Even a small discrepancy between the declared information and the import documents can cause the shipment to be held for inspection.

Labeling Requirements for Imported Lipsticks: Getting it Right from the Start Avoids Problems Later

When importing lipstick, it is mandatory to have labels in Vietnamese before releasing them to the market. Businesses can keep the original manufacturer’s label, but need to add a supplementary label in Vietnamese.

This supplementary label should clearly state basic information such as product name, uses, ingredients, instructions for use, production date, expiration date, origin, information of the responsible entity in Vietnam, manufacturer information, and necessary usage instructions.

Many businesses often overlook this step, thinking that simply adding the label is sufficient. However, in reality, this is a crucial aspect that is easily inspected after the product has been released. If the information on the label is incomplete or inaccurate, the business can still be penalized, even if the goods have previously cleared customs normally.

Conclusion

Importing lipstick into Vietnam is not overly complicated if businesses understand each step and prepare thoroughly from the start. From cosmetic product declaration, HS code, taxes to customs procedures and labeling, each part plays a distinct role and is closely interconnected.

Green NRJ currently supports businesses in handling all these procedures comprehensively, from document consultation and product declaration to customs clearance. If you are planning to introduce lipstick to the Vietnamese market, having a partner will save you a lot of time and costs.