UPDATE ON IMPORT-EXPORT LICENSING FOR CONTROLLED CHEMICALS (2026)
According to current regulations, import-export activities for chemicals are governed by the Law on Chemicals 2025 and the Law on Foreign Trade Management 2017. Licensing is one of the mandatory control measures for chemicals classified under special control.
1. Regulations for Non-Tariff Zones
For goods related to non-tariff zones (export processing enterprises, export processing zones, etc.), the management policy is applied as follows:
- Export to overseas: Treated as normal export goods
- From domestic market into export processing zones: Not subject to foreign trade management measures
- From export processing zones into domestic market: Treated as import goods
- Management principle: Control measures are applied only once, and goods remain under customs supervision
2. Mandatory Licensing Requirements under Decree 26/2026/ND-CP
Under Decree 26/2026/ND-CP, chemicals listed under special control must obtain an import-export license issued by the competent authority (except for exempted cases as prescribed).
This is a mandatory condition for businesses to carry out legal customs clearance procedures.
3. Principles for Legal Application
In cases where multiple legal documents apply, businesses should follow these principles:
- Prioritize legal documents with higher legal validity
- Prioritize later-issued documents in case of discrepancies
- Comply with relevant international treaties (if applicable)
4. Reference Document
📄 Detailed Regulatory Document
5. Recommendations for Businesses
Businesses should proactively review their product categories and import-export plans to ensure full compliance with current regulations, especially for chemicals under special control.
Proper preparation of documentation and licensing will help minimize risks such as customs delays, additional costs, or regulatory violations.
Conclusion
Regulations on chemical management are becoming increasingly stringent to ensure safety and international compliance. Businesses should stay updated and develop appropriate compliance strategies to ensure smooth import-export operations.
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