Vietnam’s cosmetics market is booming, driving a surge in demand for imported beauty products. However, importing cosmetics requires a complex set of procedures. This article will guide you through the entire process of importing cosmetics, from preparing the necessary documents to customs clearance, empowering you to confidently navigate the import process.

1. Cosmetics Import Regulations

Cosmetic import regulations are outlined in various legal documents, including:

• Circular No. 06/2011/TT-BYT dated January 25, 2011
• Circular No. 38/2015/TT-BTC dated March 25, 2015; amended by Circular No. 39/2018/TT-BTC dated April 20, 2018
• Decree No. 69/2018/ND-CP dated May 15, 2018
• Circular No. 32/2019/TT-BYT dated December 16, 2019
• Decree No. 43/2017/ND-CP dated April 14, 2017
• Decree No. 128/2020/ND-CP dated October 19, 2020

According to these regulations, cosmetics are not prohibited for import, but businesses must comply with specific requirements. These include:

• Product notification: Businesses must submit a notification for each cosmetic product.
• HS code identification: The correct HS code must be determined to calculate the applicable import duties.

2. Required Documents for Importing Cosmetics

A complete set of documents for importing cosmetics includes:

• Customs declaration
• Commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Bill of lading
• Sales contract
• Certificate of origin
• Cosmetic Notification Certificate

3. Cosmetic Notification Certificate

Businesses must obtain a Cosmetic Notification Certificate before importing cosmetics. The file includes:

• Notification form
• Product ingredients and benefits
• Authorization letter from the manufacturer to the importer
• Business registration certificate of the importer
• Free sale certificate, etc.

There are two ways to submit the notification: in person or online via the National Single Window system. Therefore, businesses importing cosmetics should note the following:

• Goods can be cleared through customs after the business pays the required taxes. The import tax rate for cosmetics is relatively high, ranging from 15% to 22%. To qualify for import tax incentives, businesses need to prepare a certificate of origin.
• Cosmetic products must be notified before importation. Failure to do so may result in additional storage fees.
• Imported cosmetics must be labeled according to Decree 43/2017/ND-CP.

Sunshine Logistics provides comprehensive import services. With years of experience and a team of dedicated professionals, we are committed to providing our clients with the most optimal shipping solutions. Our services include:

• Booking freight for sea, air, rail, and road transportation
• Supporting businesses in completing import procedures
• Providing product notification services
• Offering end-to-end customs clearance services
• Door-to-door delivery