Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Technology (MST) has published a Draft Circular setting out the list of used digital technology products that would be prohibited from import, together with their corresponding HS (Harmonised System) codes.
The draft was released for public consultation on 21 May 2026, with a comment period that closed on 31 May 2026. As a draft, the circular is not yet in force, but it signals the import controls MST intends to apply to second-hand digital technology products.
What the Draft Circular Covers
The draft establishes a defined list of used (second-hand) digital technology products that may not be imported into Vietnam, each tied to a specific HS code. Linking the banned items to HS codes is significant: it gives customs authorities and importers a clear, classification-based reference for determining whether a given product falls within the prohibition.
For importers, the HS-code approach removes ambiguity at the border. Whether a used product is allowed in will depend on how it is classified, so correct classification becomes central to compliance.
Why This Matters
Vietnam, like a number of countries in the region, restricts the import of used electronic and digital products to manage product quality, safety, environmental impact, and electronic waste. A consolidated, HS-code-based prohibition list makes those controls clearer and more enforceable.
For businesses that import digital technology products into Vietnam, the practical implications are direct:
- Used products on the list would be blocked from import once the circular takes effect.
- Customs classification (HS code) becomes the key factor in determining whether a shipment is permitted.
- Import planning, sourcing, and supply-chain decisions for refurbished or second-hand goods may need to be reviewed.
What This Means for Industry
Manufacturers, importers, and distributors supplying digital technology products to the Vietnamese market should review their portfolios against the draft list and assess whether any of their used or refurbished products would be affected.
Because the document is still in draft, the final list and HS codes may change before the circular is formally adopted. Businesses should monitor MST’s progress toward a final circular and confirm the classification of their products ahead of any enforcement date, so they can adjust sourcing and import strategies in good time.
To review the official documentation, refer below (Vietnamese Only).
How C-PRAV Can Support You
C-PRAV supports manufacturers and importers with global market access and regulatory compliance, including for the Vietnamese market. Our team can help you assess how product import rules and classification requirements apply to your goods, review your product portfolio against emerging restrictions, and plan your testing, certification, and documentation pathway to keep your products moving smoothly into market.
Have questions? We’re here to help.