Vietnam compliance guidelines have undergone significant updates with the issuance of Circular 14/2026/TT-BKHCN by the Ministry of Science and Technology (MST). Announced on April 9, 2026, the new regulation introduces important changes to conformity assessment procedures, certification validity, and labeling practices. These updates aim to streamline compliance while aligning with evolving risk-based regulatory frameworks.
Key Changes in Vietnam Compliance Guidelines
Transfer of Certification Authority
One of the most notable changes is the transfer of ICT product certification management. Responsibility shifts from the Ministry of Information and Communications (MIC) to the State Management of Quality (STAMEQ) under MST. This centralization reflects a broader restructuring of regulatory oversight.
Extended Certificate Validity
Additionally, the validity period for Type Approval Certificates (TAC) issued under methods 2, 3, 5, and 6 has been extended from 3 years to 5 years. This aligns with certification methods described in the regulation, where conformity certificates may remain valid up to five years depending on risk and surveillance requirements .
Mandatory Factory Inspections
Moreover, Compliance Method 5 now explicitly requires both type testing and production process evaluation. This includes mandatory factory audits, reinforcing oversight of manufacturing consistency.
Updated Declaration of Conformity Process
Applicants must now submit conformity declarations through the national database for standards, metrology, and quality. This centralized system ensures traceability and regulatory transparency .
Introduction of Electronic Labeling
The updated Vietnam compliance guidelines officially permit electronic labeling (eLabel). Products using eLabels must still display conformity marks digitally, ensuring accessibility and compliance visibility .
Revised Documentation Requirements
A new self-assessment report format has been introduced. This report must include product details, testing results, and confirmation by authorized personnel, strengthening accountability in conformity declarations .
Transition Timeline and Future Outlook
The regulation will take effect on May 25, 2026. Importantly, existing Type Approval Certificates (TAC), Declarations of Conformity (DoC), and compliance marks will remain valid until their expiration.
However, further regulatory developments are expected. Changes driven by Law No. 78/2025/QH15 and Decree No. 37/2026/NĐ-CP introduce a shift from “Group 2” classification to a risk-based system. Notably, high-risk products will no longer be eligible for certain conformity assessment methods, such as Method 1, which is restricted for high-risk goods under the new framework .
Additionally, MST is preparing a new Circular to replace Circular 29/2025/TT-BKHCN, expected to take effect on July 1, 2026. This may significantly alter product classifications, potentially reducing the number of high-risk products. Nevertheless, the application of these rules to radio transceiver equipment remains unclear and will require further guidance.
How Businesses Should Prepare
Given these developments, companies must reassess their compliance strategies under the updated Vietnam compliance guidelines. Early alignment with new certification processes, documentation requirements, and labeling rules will be critical.
Impact Assessment
Technical Standards? ❌ No
Type Approval & Market Access? ✅ Yes
Imports, Customs, Trade, or Market Surveillance? ❌ No
Spectrum Management? ❌ No