Vietnam Updates CR Mark and Conformity Rules Under Decree 22
18. June 2026Vietnam has introduced significant changes to its conformity assessment framework through Decree 22/2026/ND-CP, providing detailed guidance for the implementation of the Law on Standards and Technical Regulations. The regulatory update affects manufacturers, importers, exporters, conformity assessment bodies, and other stakeholders involved in placing products on the Vietnamese market. A key focus of the decree is the management of product conformity declarations, technical regulation compliance, and the use of the CR mark within Vietnam’s quality infrastructure.
The decree clarifies the distinction between voluntary standard conformity declarations and mandatory technical regulation conformity declarations. While standard conformity remains optional, conformity with applicable national technical regulations (QCVN) continues to be a legal requirement for regulated products, except where specific exemptions apply. Products usually require CR certification and technical regulation conformity in order to be approved for import and sale in Vietnam.
New Procedures and Recognition Mechanisms
One of the most notable changes is the increased use of the National Database on standards, measurement, and quality as the primary channel for submitting conformity declarations. Organizations are generally required to file declarations electronically through this system, although alternative submission methods remain available when technical issues occur.
The decree also updates conformity assessment practices by strengthening recognition of foreign assessment results. Vietnam may recognize results through mutual recognition arrangements between countries or through unilateral recognition mechanisms. Priority is given to results issued by internationally recognized organizations operating under agreements such as ILAC, IAF, and APAC, helping reduce unnecessary technical barriers to trade while maintaining regulatory oversight.
In addition, the decree provides further clarification regarding the CR mark. The mark may be issued or applied following successful conformity assessment and declaration procedures. Its design and presentation remain subject to requirements established by the Ministry of Science and Technology.
Impact on Businesses and Market Access
The regulation outlines a structured process for conformity assessment, dossier preparation, submission, and official acceptance by competent authorities. Once a valid declaration has been accepted, businesses may affix the relevant conformity mark, including the CR mark where applicable, to product packaging and related documentation.
The decree also establishes detailed guidance for developing and publishing enterprise standards (TCCS), encouraging alignment with national, regional, and international standards whenever possible. Stakeholder consultation, technical review, and formal assessment procedures are required before publication.
Companies should pay particular attention to enforcement provisions. Administrative penalties remain applicable for failures to declare conformity, register required declarations, or ensure products meet declared specifications. Depending on the violation, corrective actions may include product recalls, recycling, destruction of non-compliant goods, or completion of missing regulatory procedures.
Overall, Decree 22/2026/ND-CP modernizes Vietnam’s conformity assessment framework and is expected to support greater regulatory transparency while facilitating market access for compliant products. Further technical guidance may be available through official regulatory and certification resources.
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