New aquafeed import policy clarifies procedures and shortens processing time

Decentralization to eliminate “detours” in procedures

One of the most notable aspects of Circular 16 is the clear definition of authority for issuing and reissuing import permits for aquafeed and aquaculture environmental treatment products, in accordance with Clause 2, Article 36 of the Fisheries Law. Accordingly, the Chairperson of the provincial People’s Committee—where organizations or individuals conduct trials, scientific research, or exhibitions—is the authority responsible for reviewing and granting permits.

Decentralizing authority to local governments means businesses no longer need to “take detours” to central agencies for technical procedures with a limited scope tied to specific localities. Procedures are handled where the project is implemented, shortening distances, reducing travel time, and making access to authorities more practical. More importantly, local authorities have the best understanding of actual conditions for trials, research, or exhibitions. This delegation not only reduces administrative burden but also strengthens post-licensing supervision, ensuring closer on-site monitoring and avoiding lax control after permits are granted.

Clearly defined application dossiers

Accoding to regulations, the import registration dossier includes an application form (Form No. 05, Appendix VII). Depending on the import purpose, organizations and individuals must provide additional relevant documents.

For exhibition purposes, the dossier must include confirmation of participation in trade fairs or exhibitions in Vietnam. Notably, this confirmation must detail the event’s time, location, product information (name, main components, uses, instructions, storage), quantity, volume, post-event handling plans, and responsibilities of involved parties.

This requirement is highly practical, as it obliges importers to plan the entire product lifecycle, including after the exhibition ends. For scientific research imports, a legally approved research proposal is required, ensuring that such imports serve clear technical advancement purposes and preventing misuse for uncontrolled market circulation.

  

 

Commitment through specific processing timelines

Circular 16 stipulates clear and short processing timelines. Within 4 working days from receipt of a complete dossier, the Department of Agriculture and Environment must appraise and submit it to the provincial People’s Committee for a decision on issuing the import permit (Form No. 06, Appendix VII). If rejected, authorities must respond in writing with reasons.

For reissuance cases (loss, damage, or change of address), the processing time is even shorter—within 2 working days. If not approved, a written explanation is also required.

While facilitating imports, Circular 16 does not relax management. On the contrary, stricter monitoring and post-inspection measures are emphasized, particularly for areas affecting environmental safety, quality, and biosecurity.

The Department is responsible for supervising participation in exhibitions and scientific research activities of importers. For live aquatic organisms used as feed, stricter multi-layer controls apply. If the species is already permitted for business in Vietnam, import follows existing legal provisions. If not, mandatory trials must be conducted in accordance with regulations.

Source inspection and upstream regulatory approach

Under the regulation, if imported aquafeed or environmental treatment products pose potential risks, the Chairperson of the provincial People’s Committee may decide to inspect the production management system in the exporting country. Inspection teams include the Department and relevant agencies.

The inspection scope extends beyond the product itself to the entire management system of the exporting country, including legal frameworks, enforcement capacity, and actual production conditions of facilities exporting to Vietnam.

This represents a significant shift in regulatory thinking. Instead of only controlling risks at ports or after issues arise domestically, authorities can proactively address risks at their source.

Source:nguoinuoitom

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