Key facts
- Vietnam's National Assembly approved amendments to the customs law.
- The amendments strengthen customs powers to intercept counterfeit and intellectual property-infringing goods.
- The new law will take effect in March 2027.
- Customs authorities can now intervene on goods transiting through Vietnam.
- New provisions address goods traded via e-commerce platforms.
Vietnam's National Assembly has approved amendments to its customs law, enhancing the powers of customs authorities to intercept counterfeit and intellectual property-infringing goods. This move comes in response to a Section 301 investigation launched by the U.S. Trade Representative in May concerning Vietnam's intellectual property protection and enforcement.
The U.S. had cited concerns including widespread counterfeiting, weak border enforcement, and limited customs authority to seize suspected counterfeit goods proactively. The revised law, effective from March 2027, broadens customs enforcement to cover imported, exported, and transiting goods.
Under the amendments, customs authorities can suspend clearance if rights holders provide evidence of infringement and a financial guarantee. Customs officers also gain the authority to halt clearance of goods if clear signs of counterfeiting are identified. The law also introduces new regulations for goods traded via e-commerce platforms, requiring them to undergo customs procedures and remain under supervision, with platform operators and logistics providers obligated to share relevant information with customs.