Vietnam Drafts New Chemicals Rules

Overview of the Draft Decrees

Decree 1: Management of Chemicals and Hazardous Substances in Products

• Importers must declare chemicals under Chapters 28 and 29 of the Import-Export Tariff via the National Single Window system.
• Monitoring lists for hazardous chemicals will be issued.
• Controls cover chemical use in raw materials, production, and finished goods.
• Producers and importers must disclose chemical details in a centralized database and on labels.
• Transitional provisions allow existing licenses to remain valid until expiration.

Decree 2: Chemical Industry Development and Safety

• Clarifies state management roles and policy development processes.
• Establishes safety standards for chemical production and handling.

Decree 3: Risk Assessment and Emergency Preparedness

• Sets procedures for chemical risk assessments.
• Requires development of emergency response plans and training programs.

Transitional Provisions and Deadlines

• Existing licenses remain valid until expiration.
• Compliance with new rules for specially controlled chemicals by December 31, 2026.
• Certificates of Eligibility for conditionally permitted and precursor chemicals remain valid until December 31, 2027.

Industry Implications

Manufacturers, importers, and exporters should:

• Review and update compliance programs to align with new regulations.
• Ensure timely and accurate hazardous chemical reporting.
• Prepare for upcoming compliance deadlines.
• Invest in staff training on new requirements.

Vietnam’s draft decrees mark a key step toward modernizing chemical governance and protecting public safety. Stakeholders are encouraged to participate in the public consultation process to influence the final regulations.

Reference: Draft Decrees on Chemical Management - Vietnam Ministry of Industry and Trade