Vietnam Overhauls Chemical Law to Meet Global Standards
Vietnam's National Assembly has adopted Law No. 69/2025/QH15 on Chemicals, marking the most significant reform to its chemical management framework in nearly two decades. The law replaces the 2007 legislation and will enter into force on January 1, 2026.
This sweeping update brings Vietnam’s chemical regulation closer to international norms, including the Globally Harmonized System (GHS), and aims to enhance environmental protection, industrial safety, and transparency.
Key Changes in the New Law
🔹 Revised Chemical Classification System
• Outdated categories removed (e.g. "toxic chemicals")
• "Restricted chemicals" renamed to “specially controlled chemicals”
• New category added: “conditional chemicals”
• Classification now aligned with global best practices
🔹 GHS-Compliant Labelling and Hazard Classification
• Mandatory use of GHS labels
• Must follow national technical regulations
• Annual use data updates required for 5 years post-registration
• Unlisted chemicals must be formally registered
🔹 Tighter Licensing and Trade Controls
• Licenses required for:
o Production, trade, import/export of specially controlled and conditional chemicals
• Import/export licenses valid per shipment
• Production/trade licenses valid for 5 years
• Mandatory declaration of all imported chemicals
Safety and Emergency Preparedness
Entities handling hazardous chemicals must:
• Appoint certified safety personnel
• Develop accident prevention and emergency plans
• Upgrade infrastructure to meet safety standards
• Safety deadlines start July 1, 2026
Transparency and Public Access
To improve chemical oversight:
• Products must disclose hazardous chemical content
• Information must be published in national databases or retail platforms
• The government may reclassify substances based on new hazard data
Compliance Transition Timeline
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Strategic Implications
Vietnam’s chemical law reform supports:
• Sustainable industrial development
• Alignment with global treaties and trade partners
• Safer supply chains in key sectors like electronics, textiles, and manufacturing
📌 In Effect: January 1, 2026
Reference: Vietnam Chemical Law No. 69/2025/QH15 (EN)
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