Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Technology (MoST) has issued Circular No. 14/2026/TT-BKHCN, promulgated on 9 April 2026 and taking effect on 25 May 2026. The Circular introduces a comprehensive revision of Vietnam’s conformity assessment and compliance declaration regime, replacing the framework that had been in place under Circular 28/2012/TT-BKHCN and its subsequent amendments.
Key Changes Introduced
Transition to a risk-based conformity assessment model
The most significant structural change under the new Circular is the shift from a group-based product assessment approach to a risk-based management model. Products and goods are now assessed according to their assigned risk level, which determines the applicable certification method, surveillance requirements, and certificate validity period.
Eight conformity assessment methods are introduced under the revised framework:
- Method 1: Certification based on type testing of representative samples
- Method 2: Type testing with post-certification market surveillance through market sample testing
- Method 3: Type testing and production process assessment, with surveillance samples taken at the production facility
- Method 4: Type testing and production process assessment, with surveillance samples taken at the production facility, on the market, or both
- Method 5: Type testing combined with production process or management system assessment, with flexible surveillance sample collection
- Method 6: Certification through management system assessment and ongoing surveillance
- Method 7: Batch certification based on random sampling from a specific product lot
- Method 8: Full product testing or inspection of individual items prior to circulation
Methods 1 and 6 are not applicable to high-risk products. For medium and high-risk products, the Circular also provides conditions under which surveillance testing quantities or parameters may be reduced, provided the organisation holds a valid, accredited quality management system certification such as ISO 9001, HACCP, or GMP.
Digital transformation in regulatory administration
Circular 14/2026/TT-BKHCN formally recognises electronic submission of conformity assessment documentation via the National Database on Standards, Metrology and Quality. Electronic labeling (e-labeling) is also officially recognised for applicable products, allowing the CR (conformity with technical regulations) mark to be displayed within a digital interface rather than physically printed on packaging or product materials.
Conformity marking requirements
The CR mark, used to indicate conformity with applicable technical regulations (hop quy), must continue to be affixed to certified products before they enter the market. Organisations are required to maintain usage records and submit annual reports on CR mark usage to their certifying body. Where a product is subject to multiple technical regulations, the CR mark may only be applied once all applicable regulations have been satisfied.
Replacement of previous regulations
The Circular formally repeals Circular 28/2012/TT-BKHCN, Circular 02/2017/TT-BKHCN, and Circular 04/2025/TT-BKHCN, consolidating Vietnam’s conformity assessment requirements into a single updated framework. Specific provisions of Circular 06/2020/TT-BKHCN and Circular 07/2024/TT-BKHCN are also revoked.
Transitional Provisions
Existing Type Approval Certificates, Declarations of Conformity, and compliance marks issued prior to 25 May 2026 will remain valid until their original expiry dates. Organisations are not required to resubmit notifications or re-register declarations under the new framework for products already certified. Re-declaration is required if there are any changes to the applicable standard or technical regulation, the content of the declaration, or the product’s characteristics, functions, or intended use.
What This Means for Industry
Manufacturers and importers placing products on the Vietnamese market should review how the new risk-based framework applies to their product categories. The assignment of a risk level will directly affect which conformity assessment method applies, how frequently surveillance assessments are required, and the maximum validity period of the resulting certificate.
Organisations that currently hold accredited quality management system certifications may benefit from reduced surveillance obligations under the new regime, provided they meet the conditions set out in the Circular. Those without such certifications should consider whether obtaining them would streamline their ongoing compliance obligations in Vietnam.
With the Circular taking effect on 25 May 2026, companies that have not yet reviewed their Vietnamese compliance programmes against the new requirements should do so promptly.
To read the official notification (Vietnamese only), access below.
How C-PRAV Can Support You
C-PRAV provides end-to-end regulatory compliance support for manufacturers and importers operating in the Vietnamese market. Our team can assist with conformity assessment planning under the new risk-based framework, coordination with accredited testing and certification bodies, preparation of conformity declarations, and ongoing post-market surveillance obligations. Whether you are entering the Vietnamese market for the first time or reviewing an existing compliance programme, we are ready to support you.
Have questions? We’re here to help.