The Vietnam cosmetic launch may be postponed due to minor problems. This may be because the Certificate of Free Sale (CFS) is not correct, claims are not qualified, or there is missing Vietnamese label data. The product can only be legally sold after the Drug Administration of Vietnam (DAV) issues the Cosmetic Product Notification Receipt Number.
The challenge for cosmetic brands is to make sure the formula, claims, documents, and labelling comply with the requirements of Vietnam in implementing the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive.
This guide offers information on cosmetic product registration in Vietnam, notification requirements, labelling requirements, timeline, and post-marketing obligations.
Cosmetics Regulatory Authority in Vietnam
The following is the regulation in Vietnam for cosmetics:
- Vietnamese Drug Administration (DAV) of the Ministry of Health (MOH).
- Following the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD), Circular 06/2011/TT-BYT, Circular 34/2025/TT-BYT.
Cosmetics Classification in Vietnam
Vietnam follows the definition of ASEAN: Cosmetics are products applied to the skin, hair, nails, lips, teeth, oral mucosa, or external intimate parts for the purpose of cleaning, perfuming, protecting, or beautifying.
Products commonly flagged for incorrect classification:
- Anti-acne products
- Hair growth products
- Medicated shampoos
- Skin whitening injections
- Sunscreens with treatment claims
Compliance Requirements for Cosmetics in Vietnam
Before submitting a notification, please consult the following ASEAN Cosmetic Directive (ACD) Vietnam compliance checklist:
- Product is within the scope of the definition of cosmetic in ASEAN.
- The ingredients used in the formula meet the ASEAN ingredient annexes.
- Prohibited substances are not used
- Restricted ingredients are used within limits
- Preservatives, UV filters and colourants are compliant with ASEAN annexes
- The names of ingredients are correct in INCI format
- Claims are in accordance with ASEAN Cosmetic Claim Guidelines.
- Product labelling complies with Vietnam and ASEAN labelling requirements.
- Vietnamese importer/responsible company is appointed
- Legalized as necessary (Certificate of Free Sale (CFS) and LOA)
- Product Information File (PIF) is prepared and maintained prior to commercialization
- Notification information is consistent with labels, CFS, LOA, and supporting documents
Vietnam Cosmetic Notification Process (Step-by-Step)
Follow the steps below to get your cosmetic products notified:
Step 1: Make Sure that the Product Falls under the cosmetic category
Check product claims, intended use and active ingredients. Products that claim to treat or cure a disease or illness can be regulated as drugs.
Step 2: Designate Vietnam-Based Importer
The local company will be responsible for notifying, keeping the PIF and conducting inspections and recalls. All documents should have the same importer details.
Step 3: Check Formula against ASEAN Restrictions
Check:
- Prohibited ingredients
- Restricted ingredient limits
- Preservatives, UV filters and colourants
- INCI name accuracy
Step 4: Prepare the Notification Dossier
The dossier includes:
- Cosmetic Notification Form
- Certificate of Free Sale (CFS)
- Letter of Authorization (LOA)
- Product label/artwork
- Complete ingredient list (INCI names)
- Manufacturer details
- Importer business registration
Consular legalization, notarization and Vietnamese translation of the CFS and LOA are required. Many ASEAN launch delays occur here.
LOA must specify:
- Authorized importer details
- Scope of authorization
- Product/brand names
- Commitment to provide PIF.
A notification is normally needed for each product. Sometimes products that vary only in colour/odour are grouped together.
Step 5: Submit Notification
Cosmetic notifications may be made online via:
- DAV public service platforms
- Vietnam National Single Window (NSW)
- National Public Service Portal
Step 6: Answer DAV Deficiency Requests
DAV can ask questions regarding:
- Incorrect ingredient names
- Label inconsistencies
- Missing legalization
- Unsupported claims
Step 7: Receive Notification Receipt Number
Importation and sale of products is only possible after receipt of the notification number, which is valid for 5 years.
Vietnam Cosmetics Labeling Requirements
The reason for many products to be delayed in customs is that the labels are not in accordance with Vietnam’s requirements or the dossier submitted.
Mandatory label elements:
- The name and function of the product.
- Complete list of ingredients (INCI names in order of concentration).
- Country of origin
- Manufacturer details
- Vietnam importer details
- Net content
- Batch number
- Manufacturing/expiry date
- Instructions for use and warnings (where applicable)
Vietnamese labelling is required for imported cosmetics before they are sold. Supplementary labels are allowed but cannot hide mandatory original information.
Vietnam still needs local importer information and Vietnamese labeling even if it is compliant in other ASEAN countries.
Product Information File (PIF) Requirements
All cosmetic products need to have a full PIF before they are marketed. The PIF should include:
- Product formula
- Safety assessment
- Product specifications
- Manufacturing information
- Evidence for statements
The PIF Part 1 should be readily available for DAV inspections. It is the responsibility of the company to keep it in place during the product’s market life.
Timeline for Cosmetic Notification in Vietnam
The notification receipt number is issued by DAV within 3 working days for valid dossiers, but the end-to-end process typically takes longer, including legalization, translations, dossier preparation, and deficiency responses.
In reality, most companies should expect a commercialization time of about 1.5–3 months.
Typical reasons for delays are:
- Missing legalization
- Incorrect ingredient declarations
- Unsupported claims
- Label inconsistencies
- The mismatch between CFS, LOA, and notification details.
Companies are usually given 3 months to correct and resubmit the dossier if deficiencies are identified by DAV.
The cosmetic notification receipt number is valid for 5 years.
Post-Market Surveillance for Cosmetics in Vietnam
Receiving the notification number doesn’t end compliance. DAV has the right to inspect products at any time.
DAV may inspect:
- Retail products
- Imported shipments
- E-commerce listings
- Product labels
- Advertising materials
Conclusion
Cosmetic companies have high market prospects in Vietnam, though to enter the market they should abide by the requirements of the ASEAN Cosmetic Directive by Vietnam. The majority of delays occur due to improper product classification, discrepancy of documentation, unsubstantiated claims, or unfinished legalization.
To make your Vietnam cosmetic entry smoother, the regulatory team at Artixio can help. We provide cosmetic registration and regulation services in Vietnam. Our team guides you through the process so that your products meet all legal requirements. For more details, reach out to us at info@artixio.com.
FAQs
1.Is cosmetic notification mandatory in Vietnam?
Yes. Requirements for cosmetic import in Vietnam include obtaining a Notification Receipt Number before import or sale.
2.Can foreign companies directly apply?
No. Foreign companies must appoint a Vietnam-based importer to submit the notification.
3.How long is the notification valid?
5 years.
4.Does Vietnam approve cosmetic products?
No. Vietnam uses a notification system. Companies remain responsible for safety and compliance.
5.Is a PIF mandatory?
Yes. A complete PIF must be maintained before marketing and available during DAV inspections.
