Cosmetics

Latest Regulations on Labeling and Advertising of Cosmetics in Vietnam

In the context of a rapidly growing cosmetics market, ensuring accurate and transparent information for consumers is a key factor in protecting public rights and health. Accordingly, Vietnamese law has issued specific regulations on the labeling and advertising of cosmetics, in line with ASEAN standards, with the aim of creating a healthy business environment while enabling consumers to easily access and safely use products effectively.

1. Legal Basis

  • Circular No. 06/2011/TT-BYT dated January 25, 2011 of the Ministry of Health on the management of cosmetics (currently in force, as amended and supplemented by subsequent circulars).

  • Circular No. 34/2025/TT-BYT dated July 3, 2025 of the Ministry of Health, amending and supplementing a number of articles of Circular No. 06/2011/TT-BYT (effective from August 18, 2025), which adjusts certain procedures regarding the Cosmetic Product Proclamation Form.

2. Cosmetic Labeling Regulations

Labeling of cosmetics is not only a legal requirement but also a tool to demonstrate the credibility of a business. According to regulations, labels must be placed in a visible position on the product or its commercial packaging, ensuring that consumers can fully access the required information without dismantling the product. If the outer packaging cannot be opened, the label must present all mandatory information directly on this packaging.

Businesses may determine the size of the label, provided that the information is clearly and legibly presented to the naked eye, truthful, and accurately reflects the product’s functions. The color of the text, numbers, and images on the label must contrast with the background to ensure legibility.

Mandatory information on labels includes:

  • Product name and function (except where the product form clearly reflects its function);

  • Instructions for use, unless the product form makes usage evident;

  • Full ingredient list using the International Nomenclature of Cosmetic Ingredients (INCI) (percentage not required);

  • Country of origin; name and address of the organization or individual responsible for placing the product on the market;

  • Net weight or volume, expressed in metric units or combined with imperial units;

  • Batch number; manufacturing date or expiry date presented clearly;

  • Safety warnings as per ASEAN requirements, especially for products requiring usage precautions.

Where the packaging is too small or the material is unsuitable for printing full information, supplementary labels may be used, but the main label must still contain at least the product name and batch number.

The label may be in Vietnamese or English. However, usage instructions, the address of the responsible entity, and safety warnings must be in Vietnamese.

3. Cosmetic Advertising Regulations

Cosmetic advertising is permitted across multiple media, including television, print, online platforms, billboards, posters, as well as through seminars and product introduction events. However, to advertise, businesses must obtain a Receipt of Advertising Registration Dossier or permission for seminar organization as per regulations.

Mandatory content in advertisements includes:

  • Cosmetic product name;

  • Functions and uses (if not evident from the product name);

  • Name and address of the organization or individual responsible for placing the product on the market;

  • Usage precautions (if any).

For TV and radio advertisements, key details such as the product name, responsible entity, and usage precautions must be clearly spoken or displayed with appropriate speed and size. For print media such as newspapers and flyers, the registration receipt number and date of receipt must be clearly stated at the bottom of the first page.

4. Application Dossier, Procedure, and Competent Authority

The advertising registration dossier includes:

  • Registration form;

  • Copy of the Cosmetic Product Proclamation Form;

  • Business registration certificate;

  • Letter of authorization (if applicable);

  • Documentation proving the product’s functions and uses;

  • Sample or script of the advertisement.

The dossier must be submitted to the competent Department of Health for appraisal. If valid, a Receipt of Advertising Registration Dossier will be issued. After 10 working days from receipt of a complete and valid dossier, if no amendments are requested, the business may proceed with advertising or event organization. If the dossier is incomplete, the Department of Health will notify the applicant for supplementation. Failure to provide supplements within 2 months from the notification date will render the dossier invalid.

If critical details such as the name, address of the organization, or the time and location of the event change, businesses must register amendments with the Department of Health. Other changes require a new registration.

5. Cases of Advertising Termination

An advertisement will cease to be valid when:

  • The product’s registration expires or is revoked;

  • The product is subject to a suspension notice;

  • There are changes affecting product quality and safety.

In such cases, the advertising entity must immediately stop dissemination.

Regulations on labeling and advertising of cosmetics form an essential legal foundation to ensure transparency of information, protect consumer rights, and maintain a fair competitive environment for businesses. Strict compliance with these regulations not only helps businesses avoid legal violations but also enhances brand credibility, builds consumer trust, and facilitates effective integration into the ASEAN market.

For consultation on medical device registration, functional foods, cosmetics, and dietary supplements in compliance with current regulations, please contact us at Hotline: 098.546.1894.