How to Import Hair Serum into Vietnam: Import Regulations & Step-by-Step Guide 2026

What procedures are required to import hair serum into Vietnam to avoid customs clearance issues? This is a question many businesses ask when starting to introduce hair care products to the Vietnamese market. From cosmetic product registration and code identification to tax calculation and labeling, each step has its own requirements and needs to be done correctly from the start. In this article, Green NRJ will help you understand the entire process so you can proactively prepare and minimize risks.

Cosmetic Product Notification (CPN) for Hair Serum in Vietnam

Before importing, distributing, or selling hair serum (also known as hair mist or leave-in hair conditioner) in Vietnam, businesses must complete the Cosmetic Product Notification (CPN) process. This mandatory legal requirement, regulated by the Vietnam Ministry of Health (MOH), applies to all cosmetic products, including hair care and styling sprays. Therefore, the product must ensure ingredient safety, not contain prohibited substances, and have labels that comply with domestic regulations. If a notification number is not obtained, the shipment will not be cleared through customs.

An important point is that only businesses in Vietnam are allowed to register the product. Therefore, foreign brands need to authorize a domestic entity to carry out this procedure.

Once issued, the registration number is valid for 5 years and can be used for multiple imports, as long as there are no changes related to the formula or product information.

HS Code and Import Duties for Hair Serum

Hair serums are typically classified as hair preparations, HS code 33059000. A value-added tax (VAT) of 10% and a normal import duty of 20% apply. However, import duty vary depending on the country of origin. If a valid certificate of origin is provided from countries with trade agreements with Vietnam, the tax rate can be significantly reduced, even to 0% in some cases. Therefore, preparing a properly certified certificate of origin is crucial for optimizing import costs.

Customs Clearance Procedures for Hair Serum

Successfully importing hair serum, hair mist, or leave-in hair conditioners into Vietnam requires strict compliance with Vietnamese customs regulations. To ensure smooth customs clearance, importers must prepare a full set of documents and follow the correct steps through the VNACCS/VCIS e-customs system. The dossier includes the import declaration, commercial invoice, packing list, bill of lading, cosmetic product registration number, and certificate of origin, if applicable. All information on the documents must be consistent with the previously declared content. If the dossier is complete, the customs clearance process usually takes a few working days. However, if there are discrepancies between the documents and the declared information, the shipment may be held for inspection, leading to delays. In practice, many businesses choose to cooperate with specialized customs agencies to ensure a smooth process.

Labeling Requirements for Import Hair Serum into Vietnam

Labeling is a mandatory requirement for goods circulating in Vietnam, but it is often overlooked. Imported hair serum must have labels in Vietnamese before being released to the market. The label must clearly state the product name, uses, instructions for use, ingredients, volume, production date, expiration date, batch number, origin, information of the responsible entity in Vietnam, manufacturer information, and warnings to be aware of when using the product. A supplementary label may be used, but it must not obscure important information such as the expiration date or batch number. The label must be clear, durable, and not peel off during transportation. Failure to meet labeling requirements may result in goods being detained at customs or penalties after circulation.

5. Conclusion

If you’re planning to import hair serum into Vietnam, follow the easy steps outlined above—from completing your Cosmetic Product Notification to paying correct duties and ensuring compliant labeling. The key lies in CPN approval, correct HS code & Certificate of Origin, and smooth customs clearance. To save time and avoid costly mistakes, consider partnering with an experienced local expert. Green NRJ can support you throughout the entire process, including CPN registration, customs declaration, and label compliance review. With deep regulatory insight and on-the-ground presence, we help foreign brands enter Vietnam’s competitive cosmetic market with confidence.

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