Vietnam Introduces New Product Conformity Rules Under Decree 22/2026/ND-CP
30. July 2026Vietnam has introduced a comprehensive update to its product conformity framework through Decree 22/2026/ND-CP, providing detailed guidance for implementing the Law on Standards and Technical Regulations. The new regulation establishes updated requirements for conformity assessment, declarations of conformity, and the recognition of testing and certification results. The changes apply to both domestic and foreign manufacturers, importers, exporters, and other organizations placing products on the Vietnamese market.
The decree clearly distinguishes between voluntary standard conformity, mandatory technical regulation conformity (QCVN), and enterprise standards (TCCS). While declarations of standard conformity remain voluntary, declarations of conformity with national technical regulations are mandatory for products subject to applicable QCVN requirements unless a legal exemption applies. Products usually require a Declaration of Conformity (CR Certification or other) in order to be approved for import and sale in Vietnam.
Clearer Requirements for Conformity Declarations and Product Marking
Decree 22/2026/ND-CP provides greater clarity regarding Vietnam’s conformity assessment system and the use of conformity marks. The regulation defines the requirements for issuing standard conformity marks and the CR Mark, which may be affixed to products after successful completion of the conformity declaration process.
The decree also establishes detailed requirements for the development and application of TCCS (enterprise standards). Organizations are encouraged to base these standards primarily on Vietnamese national standards and technical regulations. Where no national standards exist, international, regional, or foreign standards may be used as references. In addition, TCCS standards must comply with ISO/IEC 17007 principles and receive input from the relevant authorities during the approval process.
Simplified Administrative Procedures
One of the primary objectives of the new decree is to simplify administrative procedures and accelerate digitalization. Companies are now generally required to submit declarations of standard conformity and technical regulation conformity through Vietnam’s National Database on Standards, Measurement and Quality.
If the electronic platform is temporarily unavailable due to technical issues, declarations may still be submitted directly or by postal service. This flexible approach is intended to prevent unnecessary delays while promoting a centralized digital compliance system.
Expanded Recognition of Foreign Conformity Assessment Results
The decree also modernizes Vietnam’s conformity assessment framework by expanding the recognition of foreign testing, inspection, and certification results.
Two recognition mechanisms are provided:
- Mutual recognition, based on international agreements between countries or conformity assessment organizations.
- Unilateral recognition, under which Vietnamese authorities may accept results from qualified foreign conformity assessment bodies based on principles of transparency, objectivity, and non-discrimination.
Priority is given to assessment results issued by internationally recognized organizations operating under multilateral recognition arrangements such as ILAC, IAF, and APAC. The objective is to reduce unnecessary technical barriers to trade while maintaining compliance with Vietnam’s national technical regulations.
Product Conformity Declaration Process
The conformity declaration process continues to follow several key steps:
- Conduct a conformity assessment through self-assessment or an accredited certification body.
- Prepare the required declaration documents and supporting test reports.
- Submit the declaration dossier to the competent authority.
- Receive confirmation of acceptance after successful review.
- Affix the conformity mark or CR Mark to the product once the declaration has been accepted.
New Guidance for TCCS Enterprise Standards
Decree 22/2026/ND-CP also provides a structured procedure for developing and publishing TCCS enterprise standards. The process includes planning, drafting, stakeholder consultation, technical review, dossier preparation, government appraisal, and official publication by the Ministry of Science and Technology.
This structured approach aims to ensure that enterprise standards remain aligned with technological developments, national legislation, and internationally recognized standards.
Compliance Risks and Enforcement
Companies should carefully review the updated regulatory requirements. Violations related to mandatory conformity declarations or failure to disclose applicable standards may result in significant administrative penalties under Vietnam’s existing enforcement framework. Authorities may also require corrective actions, including product recalls, recycling, destruction of non-compliant products, or completion of the required conformity declaration before products can continue to be marketed.
In addition, amendments to Vietnam’s Law on Standards and Technical Regulations, effective January 1, 2026, introduce potential exemptions from conformity declaration requirements where products already comply with quality management obligations established under other specialized legislation. These changes are intended to reduce duplicate regulatory procedures while maintaining product safety and facilitating market access in Vietnam.
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