Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Technology has introduced a draft circular that significantly reshapes Vietnam risk compliance by adopting a risk-based product management system. Effective July 1, 2026, this proposal aims to streamline compliance processes while maintaining strict oversight for higher-risk products. As part of ongoing Regulatory Updates in Vietnam, the framework introduces new classification tiers and aligns compliance requirements more closely with product risk levels.
Risk-Based Product Classification
The draft regulation divides products into two main categories: medium-risk and high-risk. High-risk products, such as 4G/5G cellular devices, base stations, radar systems, and consumer electronics, will continue to require third-party certification and state quality inspections.
However, medium-risk products, including lithium batteries for handheld devices and short-range devices (SRDs), will see reduced administrative burden. While testing and conformity declarations remain mandatory, state quality inspections will no longer be required.
Moreover, existing certificates will remain valid until their expiration, allowing businesses to transition smoothly into the new Vietnam risk compliance framework.
Impact on Market Access and Customs
The regulation introduces a clearer mapping between National Technical Regulations (QCVNs) and HS codes. This alignment enhances transparency for customs authorities, enabling more precise enforcement of inspections.
Additionally, medium- and high-risk goods will be subject to targeted inspections, while low-risk items are exempt from pre-import checks. For complex, multi-technology devices, such as laptops with both Wi-Fi and cellular capabilities-manufacturers must ensure compliance with all applicable QCVNs.
Although spectrum allocation rules remain unchanged, stricter technical limits will apply across multiple frequency bands, including 2.4 GHz, 5 GHz, 6 GHz, LPWAN, radar frequencies, and cellular networks.
Updates to National Technical Regulations (QCVNs)
Significant updates to QCVNs are also included in the draft. Notably, QCVN 134:2024/BTTTT for 5G mobile terminals will become mandatory on July 1, 2026.
Furthermore, to reduce testing burdens:
- Certain extreme/critical condition tests will remain suspended from July 1, 2025.
- A broader set of QCVNs will be fully suspended from July 1, 2025, to December 15, 2026.
These changes aim to simplify compliance processes while maintaining essential safety and performance standards.
Impact Assessment
Technical Standards? ❌ No
Type Approval & Market Access? 
Yes
Imports, Customs, Trade, or Market Surveillance? ❌ No
Spectrum Management? ❌ No
