Latest process of granting import and export licenses

Granting import and export licenses is a mandatory procedure for many types of goods when they want to circulate across Vietnam’s borders. This license is the basis to prove the legality of international trade activities and helps the state control the quality and quantity of goods, protecting national interests and consumers. This article, written by Long Phan Consulting Company, will analyze in detail the documents and import and export license processes for customers.

The importance of import and export licenses

An import and export license acts as a “passport” for goods, ensuring that commercial activities are carried out in accordance with the law. Complying with the licensing process helps businesses avoid legal risks and at the same time build reputation with international partners. In addition, licenses are also the basis for the state to make statistics and manage import and export activities, thereby making appropriate regulatory policies.

List of imported and exported goods managed according to import and export licenses

According to Decree 69/2018/ND-CP, some import and export items require licenses to ensure strict management. Specifically as follows:

List of imported goods

The list of imported goods requiring an import license is specified in Part B, Section I and Part A, Section VIII, Appendix III issued with Decree 69/2018/ND-CP including:

1. Goods requiring import control according to the provisions of international treaties to which Vietnam is a member are announced by the Ministry of Industry and Trade from time to time.
2. Goods applying the automatic import licensing regime: The Ministry of Industry and Trade announces the list of goods applying the automatic import licensing regime for each period and organizes licensing according to current regulations on licensing.
3. Goods subject to the tariff quota regime: Salt, raw tobacco, poultry eggs, refined sugar, raw sugar.

• Industrial precursors;
• Explosive precursors and industrial explosives;
• Raw gold.

List of exported goods

The list of exported goods requiring an import license is specified in Part I and Part A, Section VII, Appendix III issued with Decree 69/2018/ND-CP including:

• Industrial precursors.
• Explosive precursors and industrial explosive materials.
• Types of goods exported according to quotas prescribed by foreign countries (announced by the Ministry of Industry and Trade in accordance with Vietnam’s international agreements or commitments with foreign countries).
• Goods requiring export control according to the provisions of international treaties to which Vietnam is a member, announced by the Ministry of Industry and Trade from time to time.
• Goods that apply the automatic export licensing regime: The Ministry of Industry and Trade announces the list of goods that apply the automatic export licensing regime for each period and organizes licensing according to current regulations on licensing.
• Medicines must be specially controlled.
• Medicinal ingredients are psychotropic pharmaceutical substances, narcotic pharmaceutical substances, and drug precursors.
• Medicinal herbs belong to the list of precious, rare, and endemic species and types of medicinal herbs that must be controlled.
• Raw gold.

>>> See more: Certification procedures for exported foods.

Application for a license to import and export goods

An application for import and export licenses needs to be fully prepared with the following documents:

• Written request for a license from the trader (01 original copy).
• Investment certificate or business registration certificate, enterprise registration certificate (01 copy with seal of trader).
• Relevant papers and documents according to the provisions of law.

Process of granting import and export licenses for goods

The process of granting import and export licenses for goods is carried out according to the following steps:

Step 1: Submit application

Traders submit applications directly, by post or online (if any) to the ministry or ministerial-level agency with licensing authority.

Step 2: Appraisal of documents and issuance of license

• In case the dossier is not complete, in accordance with regulations or additional explanatory documents are needed, within 3 working days, the ministry or ministerial-level agency will notify the trader to complete the dossier.
• Within a maximum of 10 working days from receipt of complete and valid documents, the ministry or ministerial-level agency shall respond in writing to the trader, unless otherwise prescribed by law.
• In case the ministerial-level agency with licensing authority must exchange opinions with relevant agencies, the time limit for processing the application is calculated from the time of receiving the relevant agency’s response.

>>> See more: Issue Certificate of eligibility for LNG import and export traders.

Consulting services and guidance on the import and export licensing process of Long Phan Consulting Company

Long Phan Consulting Company provides comprehensive consulting and support services on the import and export licensing process, including:

• Consulting on types of goods that require import and export licenses;
• Consulting on conditions for applying for a license;
  Consulting on necessary import and export licenses for each type of goods;
• Detailed instructions on the process of granting import and export licenses for goods;
• Drafting dossiers, forms and related documents;
• Representing customers in working with competent state agencies;
• Monitor application processing progress and update information for customers;
• Consulting on resolving legal issues that arise during the license application process.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) about import and export licenses

Below are frequently asked questions about the process of licensing import and export of goods, customers can refer to:

What is the maximum time to receive import and export licenses?

According to regulations, the maximum time for ministries and ministerial-level agencies to respond in writing to traders is 10 working days from receipt of complete and valid documents, unless otherwise prescribed by law.

In what ways can I apply for import and export licenses?

You can submit your application in person, by post or online (if the competent authority supports online submission).

What happens if my license application is incomplete?

If your application is incomplete or additional documents are needed, within 3 working days, the ministry or ministerial-level agency will notify you to complete the application.

If I violate import and export regulations, how will I be handled?

Violations may be subject to administrative sanctions or criminal prosecution depending on the severity.

Does a newly established business need an import and export license?

Newly established businesses still need import and export licenses if the import and export goods are on the list of items requiring a license.

Is it mandatory to use import-export consulting services?

Using consulting services is not mandatory, however, if the business does not have experience, consulting helps minimize risks and save time and costs.

What to note so that the license application goes smoothly?

It is necessary to carefully check the HS code of the goods, prepare full documents and comply with specialized inspection regulations.

Conclude

In order for import and export activities to take place smoothly and effectively, customers need to clearly understand the process and regulations related to applying for a license. Long Phan Consulting Company is ready to support customers in all issues related to import and export licenses. If you have any questions or need advice, please contact us via the hotline: 0906735386 for dedicated and thoughtful support.