Navigating Health Supplements Registration Process in Vietnam

Vietnam’s health product market has been booming since it opened to foreign imports in the 1990s. Currently in Vietnam over 4,000 companies are offering more than 10,000 health products. Foreign brands are dominating this sector but knowing the registration process for general health supplements requires careful attention to local regulations and procedures.

For companies looking to enter Vietnam’s general health supplement market, understanding the regulations set by the Vietnam Food Administration (VFA) is crucial. This blog will walk you through the key definitions, procedures, and regulations you need to know to register your health supplements in Vietnam. This will be helpful for the manufacturer, distributor, or investor to take the first step to bring your products to Vietnamese consumers.

Need help with Health Supplements Registration in Vietnam? Check out InCorp Vietnam’s Product Registration Services now!

1. What Are Health Supplements?

In Vietnam, a “health supplement” means it is a subcategory of functional food. It is meant to add to your daily diet to improve your overall health and well-being. These products may contain vitamins, minerals, herbs, or other natural ingredients.

Examples of Health Supplements in Vietnam:

• Vitamin and Mineral Supplements: They contain essential nutrients that may be missing in your diet.
• Herbal Supplements: They have plant extracts with medicinal properties.
• Probiotic Supplements: They introduce good bacteria to the gut for digestive health.
• Omega-3 Supplements: They have essential fatty acids for heart and brain health.

2. Health Supplements Consumption Trends in Vietnam 

2.1. Foreign Brands Trusted More Than Domestic Ones 

In Vietnam’s rapidly expanding health supplement market, foreign brands have carved out a significant presence, capturing approximately 40% of the market share. This preference is largely driven by consumer perceptions that international products adhere to higher quality standards, possess superior manufacturing practices, and offer greater efficacy compared to local alternatives. Hence, foreign brands often position themselves in the premium segment, targeting mid-to-high-income consumers who are willing to invest more in health products they perceive as trustworthy and effective. 

On the contrary, domestic brands, while holding a larger overall market share, primarily focus on the mass market and are more active in the herbal and traditional supplement categories. These products resonate with consumers seeking familiar, natural remedies rooted in Vietnamese culture. However, they may lack the perceived scientific backing and global recognition that bolster the reputation of foreign brands. This dynamic has led to a market where consumers are increasingly open to trying imported products, especially those offering non-herbal or modern dietary supplements. 

2.2. Herbal Health Supplements Preferred 

Herbal and traditional supplements have long held a dominant position in Vietnam’s health supplement market, reflecting deep-rooted cultural practices and consumer preferences. In 2021, these products accounted for over 70% of the market share, a trend driven by the widespread belief that herbal remedies are safer and have fewer side effects compared to synthetic alternatives. This perception has been further reinforced by the COVID-19 pandemic, which heightened public awareness of immune health and led to increased demand for natural solutions.  

Ginseng, renowned for its immune-boosting properties, stands out as the most popular herbal dietary supplement in Vietnam. The country’s significant import volume of ginseng roots underscores this demand, with Vietnam emerging as the largest importer globally, accounting for 53% of total ginseng root imports. 

The preference for herbal supplements is also evident in the beauty and personal care sector, where products infused with traditional ingredients like ginseng, turmeric, and various Vietnamese herbs are highly sought after. This inclination towards natural remedies is not only a reflection of cultural heritage but also a response to the growing consumer desire for holistic and preventive health solutions. 

2.3. Domestic Players Dominate 

Herbalife, Trafaco JSC, Amway Vietnam Ltd, Nu Skin Vietnam Co Ltd, and Hau Giang Pharmaceutical JSC are the top five health supplement companies in Vietnam. However, the majority of the top corporations own less than 5% of the market, which demonstrates that the Vietnam supplement sector is highly competitive as the number of establishments increased to 3,108 with 11,127 products in 2021. 

In addition, more than 70% of the health supplements consumed in the market are domestically produced goods. The remaining 20% are imported from well-known markets such as the US, Germany, Canada, South Korea, Japan, and so on. 

While domestic products still dominate with a 70% market share, several large foreign brands have invested significantly to expand the market such as Cheing Kwan Jang, Pharmaton, IMC, and so on. With advantages in technology, product quality, inspection, and a strict manufacturing process, these are formidable competitors that are likely to quickly dominate the market in the near future. 

It is worth noting that, under Decree No. 15/2018/ND-CP, all functional food production establishments must fulfill Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP). GMP is a system that ensures products are produced as per quality standards. In 2020, more than 200 factories met or exceed GMP requirements. 

Read Related: Vietnam Pharmaceutical Companies: Best Way to Invest

3. How to Register Health Supplements in Vietnam?

Here is the step-by-step guide:

1. Labeling:

On top of the standard regulations, the following are the key requirements for labelling health supplements in Vietnam: 

• Clear Identification: The label must say “health supplement”.
• Nutritional Information: The label must show the amount of nutritional content, vitamins, minerals, etc.
• Disclaimer: A disclaimer “This product is not a medicine and not intended to replace it” must be stated.
• Ingredient Quantity: If the product name is the same as the main ingredient, then the label must show the amount of the ingredient.

Read Related: Essential Vietnam Product Labels Guidance for Businesses

2. Safety and Hygiene:

• Food Safety Certificate: All companies must have a “Certificate of Satisfaction on Standards for Food Hygiene and Safety”.
• Clean Facilities: Keep production, storage, and sales facilities clean and tidy.
• Employee Health: All employees who handle supplements must have regular health check-ups and food safety and hygiene training.

3. Application Dossier:

Here are the dossiers you should submit.

4. Import Requirements:

• Declaration Form: Fill in the declaration form.
• Food Safety Testing Results: Original notarized copies of food safety testing results from a recognized laboratory within 12 months from submission.
• Research: Submit scientific evidence of the product or ingredient effects.
• GMP: Submit a valid Certificate of Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) or equivalent.

4. Key Considerations For Investors When Importing Health Supplements Into Vietnam 

4.1. Must Pay Attention To Product Labeling And Product Claims 

Under Decree 43/2014/TT-BYT, companies producing or selling health supplements in Vietnam must follow clear rules when it comes to product claims and labeling. If a product wants to highlight that it contains certain nutrients (like vitamins or minerals), it must provide at least 10% of the Vietnamese Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI) per serving or per 100 grams. The same rule applies to any health benefit claims. For example, if a company says a product supports the immune system or improves digestion, that claim must be backed by scientific evidence, and the nutrient mentioned must meet the 10% RNI threshold. 

In addition, the labeling requirements are very strict. Every health supplement must clearly state that “This product is not a medicine and is not a substitute for medicines” on its packaging. This is to make sure consumers are not misled into thinking the supplement can treat or cure diseases. These rules are in place to build trust with consumers and ensure businesses promote their products responsibly. 

4.2. Strict Regulations On Product Advertising 

According to Decree 43/2014, businesses must also pay close attention to regulations on product advertising. Advertising registration must follow the prescribed procedures, and the content must not mislead consumers into believing the product has therapeutic effects like medicine. One of the most common reasons for application rejection is unclear or misleading descriptions of the product’s function, which can be mistaken for medical claims. Therefore, understanding and adhering to these legal regulations not only ensures smoother market entry but also minimizes compliance risks. 

4.3. Conduct Thorough Ingredient Check 

Before registering a health supplement in Vietnam, conducting a thorough ingredient check is essential to ensure regulatory compliance and avoid costly delays. All ingredients must be legally permitted under Circular 43/2014/TT-BYT and Decree 15/2018/NĐ-CP, with accurate classification and documentation such as Certificates of Analysis, specification sheets, and consular-legalized CFS and GMP certificates. Common mistakes like using unapproved substances, unclear labeling, or incomplete disclosures can lead to application rejections.  

How InCorp Vietnam Can Assist With Health Supplements Registration?

Vietnam’s health supplement market is expanding, but navigating regulatory requirements can be challenging. Compliance ensures product safety, prevents penalties, and secures legal approval. The process demands extensive documentation, adherence to safety standards, and government approvals, which can be complex for new entrants.

InCorp Vietnam simplifies this process by handling documentation, securing safety licenses, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Our experts manage translations, liaise with government agencies, and act as your local representative, eliminating delays and complications. Partner with InCorp Vietnam for a seamless market entry and focus on business growth while we handle compliance. Contact us today for expert assistance!

Looking to register health supplements in Vietnam? Let InCorp Vietnam handle the process for you with expert product registration services!