Cosmetics are an integral part of everyday life, Especially for women, Helps improve appearance and skin care. However, to import cosmetics into Vietnam, Businesses need to comply with strict regulations on product announcement and customs procedures. So what are cosmetics?? What are the procedures for importing cosmetics?? Let's go together Logistics power Explore details through the article below, from concept, product announcement, HS Code, to the import process according to updated regulations until 2025.

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What are cosmetics??

Cosmetics concept

Cosmetics (cosmetic) are substances or products used to improve appearance, make up, or change the scent of the human body. They are usually applied topically, apply on face, and, hair, or other parts to clean, embellish, protect, or change appearance without affecting body structure or function.

For example, Cosmetics may include lipstick to color the lips, Foundation to conceal facial imperfections, eyeshadow to highlight the eyes, or facial cleanser to clean the skin. These products only have external effects, Do not swallow or use as medicine. Cosmetics are also used for hair, like shampoo, conditioner, or hair cream, Makes hair healthier and smoother.

Theo Decree 15/2018/ND-CP and Circular 06/2011/TT-BYT, Cosmetics are strictly regulated to ensure consumer safety, Avoid products that are counterfeit or contain toxic substances.

Classification of popular cosmetics

Cosmetics are classified diversely based on their uses and parts of use:

• Makeup cosmetics: Lipstick, concealer, eye shadow, foundation.

• Skin care cosmetics: Skin care cream, cleanser, mask, anti-aging serum.

• Hair care cosmetics: Shampoo, conditioner, hair cream.

• Other cosmetics: Sunscreen, perfume, nail/pedicure care products.

Understanding the concept and classification of cosmetics helps businesses prepare correct documents when importing, Avoid confusion with pharmaceuticals or functional foods.

Cosmetic announcement

According to regulations in Decree 15/2018/ND-CP (Amended by Decree 118/2021/ND-CP and updates to 2025), All imported or domestically produced cosmetics must be announced at the competent state agency before circulation. Cosmetic announcement paper (or Cosmetic proclamation form) is a document certifying the product's compliance with Vietnamese law, Helps businesses legalize distribution.

Cosmetic declaration is not only a legal procedure but also brings benefits:

• Build trust with customers about product quality and safety.

• Avoid legal risks such as administrative fines or goods recall.

• Increase competitiveness in the market by proving products meet standards.

Cosmetic announcement process

The cosmetic announcement process is carried out online through the Drug Administration's Information Portal (Ministry of Health), with time approx 40-60 working days (including testing if necessary). Key steps under the 2025 regulations:

1. Step 1: Prepare documents

   • Prepare documents according to regulations, announced by the enterprise or implemented by an authorized unit.

2. Step 2: Submit application

   • Submit to the competent authority:

     • Domestically produced cosmetics: Department of Health of the province/city where the business's headquarters or factory is registered.

     • Imported cosmetics: Drug Administration – Ministry of Health.

   • Submit online via the Electronic Information Portal (https://congbosanpham.vfa.gov.vn/).

3. Step 3: Document appraisal

   • The agency checks the validity in 5 working days.

   • If the profile is not complete, notice of amendments/additions in 3 working days. Businesses have it 3 months to supplement; otherwise, profile is cancelled.

4. Step 4: Issued publication number

   • If valid, The agency issues the cosmetic declaration number in 5 working days.

   • The publication number is the basis for the product to be circulated on the market.

Records declaring domestically produced cosmetics

• Cosmetic announcement form: According to the form of the Ministry of Health.

• Business registration certificate: Copy.

• Product testing certificate: Check ingredients and quality criteria.

• Power of attorney: If the manufacturer authorizes the distributor (original, Full content according to regulations of the Ministry of Health).

• Production license: Copy from competent state agency.

• CD containing records: Soft file of announcement form and accompanying documents.

Records declaring imported cosmetics

• Cosmetic announcement form: According to the general pattern.

• Power of attorney: From the manufacturer/owner to the organization/individual responsible for bringing the product to the Vietnamese market (original or notarized).

• Certificate of free circulation (CFS): From the competent authority of the country of origin, still valid, consular legalization (exemption in some cases under CPTPP or ASEAN, with documents proving circulation).

• Product testing certificate: Within 12 months from an accredited laboratory.

• Scientific evidence: Prove product uses (research report, scientific documents).

• Product label template: Original label and draft secondary label in Vietnamese.

• Notarized translation: If the document is in a foreign language.

• Product sample: To check if needed.

Note: According to the 2025 update from Decree 118/2021/ND-CP and Circular 06/2011/TT-BYT, Applications must be submitted online. The enterprise is responsible for the accuracy of the documents. If the application fails, The agency will announce that it will not issue a published number 5 days.

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HS Code of cosmetic products

HS Code helps determine import taxes and customs procedures. Most cosmetics belong to the group 3304 (makeup and skin care products) and 3401 (cleaning products), theo Import and export tariff schedule 2025:

HS code	Description of goods	Product example	Preferential import tax (%) (2025, depending on origin)
33041000	Lip makeup preparations	Lipstick, lip balm	20
33042000	Eye makeup preparations	Eye shadow, eyeliner	22
33043000	Preparations for fingernails/pedicures	Nail polish, nail care	22
33049100	Chalk, compressed or uncompressed	Face powder, blush	22
33049920	Anti-acne cream	Acne treatment gel, acne cream	10
33049930	Other face/skin creams and lotions	Skin care cream, rose water	20
33049990	Other type	Serum, mask, emulsion	20
34013000	Liquid/cream skin cleansing products	Cleanser, facial cleansing gel	27

Note: Tax can be reduced to 0-12% if there is C/O from FTA countries (like RCEP, AFCTA). Businesses need to look up accurately based on product characteristics to avoid errors when declaring.

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Procedures for importing cosmetics

After completing the cosmetic announcement, Enterprises can import. Procedure follows Circular 38/2015/TT-BTC (Amended by Circular 39/2018/TT-BTC) and updated in 2025:

1. Step 1: Prepare customs documents

   • Bill of lading (Bill of Lading).

   • Commercial invoice (Commercial Invoice).

   • Packing slip (Packing List).

   • Sea freight invoice (if applicable).

   • Surcharge invoice at export port.

   • Receipt form for cosmetic announcement.

2. Step 2: Submit documents at customs

   • Electronic declaration on VNACCS system.

   • Submit paper documents if necessary (depending on channeling).

3. Step 3: Inspection and customs clearance

   • Customs checks documents and goods (if the channel is red).

   • Pay import tax and VAT.

   • If valid, Customs permits customs clearance.

4. Step 4: Bring goods to warehouse

   • Complete procedures to transport goods to warehouse and distribution.

Note: Announced cosmetics can be cleared without waiting for quality inspection results, but must ensure the receipt number is announced before circulation. Customs clearance time is usually 3-5 days if the documents are complete.

Benefits when using Cuong Quoc Logistics's services

• Comprehensive consulting: Support from product announcement to customs declaration, reduce the risk of errors.

• Save time: Process online documents quickly, Avoid long-term storage.

• Optimal costs: Consulting on preferential taxes and effective logistics.

• Guaranteed compliance: Support testing and scientific evidence for successful publication.

Cuong Quoc Logistics – A reputable cosmetics import support unit

Logistics power, established since 2011, is a leading unit in the field of logistics and import-export in Vietnam. Initially operating under the name Cuong Quoc Import Export Company Limited, We specialize in importing electronic products, electronics, and construction equipment. From 2020, The company changed its name to Cuong Quoc Freight Forwarding Company Limited, Expanding into global logistics.

With over a decade of experience, We are proud to be members of prestigious associations such as HLA, VLA, FIAT, and JCTRANS. Main services include:

• Shipping sea, air, and domestic.

• Customs declaration and import and export entrustment.

• Support product announcement and quality testing.

• International courier.

Cuong Quoc Logistics is committed to providing quick cosmetic import solutions, professional, and save costs. Contact now for advice:

CUONG QUOC LOGISTICS COMPANY LIMITED
Office: 7th floor, Parami Building, 140 Bach Dang, Tan Son Hoa Ward, Ho Chi Minh City
Hotline: 0972 66 71 66
Email: info@cql.com.vn
Website: https://cql.com.vn

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Conclude

Procedures for importing cosmetics require carefulness in product declaration, Prepare records, and regulatory compliance to ensure products are safe and legal. Hope the article from Logistics power has provided useful information for you to carry out the import process effectively. Contact us for detailed and professional support!