Import Sunscreen into Vietnam in 2026: A Simple and Effective Guide

What procedures are required to import sunscreen into Vietnam smoothly and avoid delays at border crossings? In short, businesses need to complete the cosmetic product notification before importing, prepare a complete customs dossier, apply the correct HS code, and ensure product labeling complies with regulations. It sounds like a lot of steps, but if done correctly, the process is entirely manageable. In this article, Green NRJ will guide you through each stage, from dossier preparation to customs clearance, to make bringing your product to the Vietnamese market clearer and easier.

Is Sunscreen Considered a Cosmetic Product in Vietnam?

Yes. In Vietnam, sunscreen is classified as a cosmetic product and is regulated under the same legal framework. This applies to all product forms, from creams, gels, and sprays to makeup products with integrated sun protection. Therefore, before import, the product must be registered with the Drug Administration of the Ministry of Health. After completion, the business will be issued a notification number, which is a condition for the product to be allowed to circulate on the market. Without this step, goods are very likely to be detained at customs clearance.z

A unique aspect of the regulations is that foreign businesses cannot directly register cosmetic products under their own name. Instead, a legal entity in Vietnam must carry out this procedure. In practice, many brands choose to cooperate with domestic distributors or use the services of a registration agent to ensure legal compliance. Authorization from the brand is mandatory and needs to be prepared according to regulations to avoid problems when submitting the application.

HS Code and Import Duties for Sunscreen in Vietnam

When starting import procedures, one of the first things to clarify is the HS code of the product, as this is the basis for calculating taxes. For sunscreen, this item is usually classified under HS code 3304.99.30, belonging to the skincare product group.

Based on this code, the tax rate will be determined based on the origin of the goods. Without a Certificate of Origin (C/O), businesses will have to apply the Most Favored Nation (MFN) import tax, currently around 18%. In addition, the Value Added Tax (VAT) applied to this item is 10%, calculated on the total value after import duties are added.

In practice, the tax cost can be significantly reduced if the business obtains a valid C/O. When meeting the conditions of trade agreements, import duties can be adjusted to a lower level, even 0%, depending on the market.

Conversely, if a Certificate of Origin (C/O) is missing or the wrong form is used, businesses will not only revert to the 18% tax rate but may also experience prolonged processing times. Therefore, checking the documents from the outset often helps avoid both additional costs and unnecessary delays.

Customs Clearance Process to Import Sunscreen into Vietnam

After completing the legal procedures, businesses will proceed with customs declaration on the electronic system. At this stage, the quality of the documentation almost directly determines the customs clearance time. When the information between the documents is clear, consistent, and there are no physical inspections required, goods are usually released quite quickly, within just a few working days.

To achieve this, businesses need to prepare all the basic documents such as the import declaration, commercial invoice, packing list, and bill of lading. In addition, for sunscreen products, the cosmetic product notification number is a mandatory document. To benefit from preferential tax treatment, businesses also need to submit a certificate of origin (C/O) in the correct format. All information such as product name, quantity, origin, and declared value must match across these documents.

In reality, even a small inconsistency, such as a mismatch in product name or manufacturer information, can lead to requests for corrections or re-examination, causing processing times to extend beyond expectations. This is also why many businesses choose to work with experienced agencies to minimize risks and ensure a smoother customs clearance process.

Vietnamese Labeling Requirements for Imported Sunscreen

Before a product is released to the market, labeling is often done relatively late, but it’s the part that regulatory authorities scrutinize very carefully. Even if other documents are complete, a shipment may be held up for further inspection if the missing or incorrect information is required.

Essentially, labels need to clearly display information such as the product name, uses, instructions for use, ingredients, and volume or weight. In addition, traceability information such as the production date, expiration date, batch number, origin, manufacturer information, and the responsible entity in Vietnam must also be included and clearly presented. For products with sensitive elements, warnings or precautions should be clearly stated to avoid misunderstandings during use.

The language used on labels must be Vietnamese. If the product retains its original foreign label, the business must affix a supplementary label before distribution. In reality, many problems arise not from a lack of information, but from unclear, easily peeling, or illegible labels after shipping, so this aspect also needs careful inspection.

For products advertised as sunscreen, the labeling needs to be more carefully considered. Information such as SPF, UVA/UVB protection capabilities, and usage instructions must accurately reflect the declared information. Avoid misleading language such as “absolute sun protection” or claims of therapeutic properties. Furthermore, instructions should clearly state the need to reapply after a certain period to ensure effectiveness, as this is often a key consideration during inspections by regulatory authorities.

Conclusion

Importing sunscreen into Vietnam will become simpler when businesses understand each step from cosmetic product declaration and documentation preparation to import procedures and labeling. The majority of difficulties lie not in complex regulations, but in a lack of initial preparation.

Green NRJ can support businesses throughout this entire process, from cosmetic product declaration and tax consulting to document preparation, customs clearance assistance, and label inspection. Having a unit that thoroughly understands the regulations and practical procedures will make introducing products to the Vietnamese market much faster, simpler, and less risky.