Trade and Customs Laws in Vietnam

When it comes to customs laws, complexity is one of the biggest challenges faced by many countries, including Vietnam. For a long time, the Vietnam government has also had to continuously solve multiple layers of regulations and laws that could conflict with one another, making it difficult for businesses to keep up. As a result, businesses operating in Vietnam must take extra precautions to ensure that their activities comply with the various laws and regulations, or risk running afoul of them. This complexity can be overwhelming for businesses looking to operate in the country, and having a knowledgeable customs law firms in Vietnam to help navigate the complexities of the Vietnam customs systems on hand to assist is essential.

What Are the Different Areas of Custom Law in Vietnam?

Customs law is made up of various areas of regulation, which includes customs valuation, duty and taxes, import and export control, shipping documents and procedures, origin of goods, safety and security, and violation and penalties. Regardless of the nature of the product, understanding the various provisions of the customs laws is of paramount importance for businesses trading in and with Vietnam.

Custom Valuation

Custom valuation in Vietnam is an integral part of the customs laws and it refers to the proper assessment of the value of the goods to be imported or exported. The process involves detailed assessment of various factors including the cost of production, the cost of transportation upto the loading port, and any other applicable charges. It is essential for businesses to understand the importance of custom valuation to ensure compliance with the current customs laws.

Tax and Duty

Tax and duty laws are part of the customs regulations of Vietnam. These regulations may differ based on the nature and type of product that is being imported or exported.  There are various types of taxes and duties including excise, import duty, value added tax, and special consumption tax. Special attention is to be given to any exemptions or special privileges that have been given to certain goods and materials. Security deposit and bond rules may also be applicable in certain cases.

Import-Export Controls

In Vietnam, rigorous import and export controls are in place in order to protect the interests of domestic industry and domestic market. These controls limit the quantity and type of goods that are allowed for import or export and also determine the price guidelines applicable to the goods. 

Shipping Documents and Procedures

Shipping documents and procedures are closely regulated under Vietnamese customs law. The documents that are required and the type of customs clearance procedures that have to be followed need to be carefully understood by companies trading in and with Vietnam. This is in order to ensure that the shipments reach their destination in a timely manner.

Origin of Goods

Origin of the goods that are being transported to or from Vietnam is a very important consideration in ensuring compliance with the customs laws. Companies are expected to provide proof and documentary evidence of the origin of the goods to ensure there are no delays in the shipment process.

Advantage of Free Trade Agreements

Vietnam is party to various Free Trade Agreements with countries around the world. These agreements offer various benefits to companies importing or exporting goods. Companies should ensure to understand the various continue provisions of the agreements and make use of the opportunities offered in order to gain competitive advantage.

Violation and Penalties

Companies that are found to be in violation of the customs laws may face severe penalties including but not limited to monetary fines, seizure of the goods, and in worse cases a jail sentence. It is important that companies ensure to comply with the customs regulations in order to avoid any such repercussions.

How Customs Law Firms in Vietnam Can Help?

Compliance with the various requirements of the customs laws in Vietnam can be a daunting task for many companies. This is where lawyers at customs law firms in Vietnam can lend a hand to provide the necessary guidance and assistance to the companies so that they can navigate their way through the complex web of regulations without any problems while doing business in Vietnam.