Export Procedures for Plastic Bags

Export Procedures for Plastic Bags by Ipologistics

Plastic bags are widely used in the packaging and trade industries. With the increasing demand in consumer and packaging sectors, exporting plastic bags has become a promising field. However, to carry out legal and efficient exports, businesses need to understand and comply with current regulations. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the export procedures for plastic bags, including HS codes, legal basis, state regulations on licenses, product quality inspections, and detailed procedures.

1. HS Code Classification for Plastic Bags

1.1. HS Codes for Plastic Bags

HS (Harmonized System) codes are an international classification system for goods that helps determine the code number of products for export. For plastic bags, the applicable HS codes are:

• HS Code 3923.21.19: Plastic bags used for packaging, made from polyethylene (PE).
• HS Code 3923.29.90: Other types of plastic bags not specifically classified.

1.2. How to Look Up HS Codes

Businesses can look up HS codes at:

• Vietnam Customs General Department website: General Department of Customs.
• Ministry of Finance’s electronic portal: Provides updated information on HS codes and related regulations.

2. Legal Basis and State Regulations on Exporting Plastic Bags

2.1. Commercial Law 2005

Vietnam’s Commercial Law clearly outlines the rights and obligations of parties in trade transactions, including the export of goods. According to Article 27 of the Commercial Law, businesses must fulfill obligations regarding declarations, reporting, and compliance with regulations related to exports.

2.2. Decree 69/2018/ND-CP

This decree guides the implementation of regulations from the Law on Foreign Trade Management. Plastic bags are not included in the list of conditional export goods, allowing businesses to export without special permits, but they must comply with environmental protection and product safety regulations.

2.3. Circular 38/2015/TT-BTC

This circular regulates customs procedures for exported and imported goods. Businesses must prepare complete documentation and declare electronically to ensure prompt clearance of goods.

2.4. Environmental Protection Law 2020

Plastic bags belong to a group of products that may cause environmental pollution. Therefore, businesses must ensure that their products comply with regulations on environmental protection, including:

• Standards for environmentally friendly products: Ensuring that plastic bags do not harm the environment and can be recycled.
• Regulations on restrictions on plastic bags: Some countries require businesses to register and inspect plastic bags before exporting.

2.5. Importing Country Regulations

In addition to domestic regulations, businesses also need to understand the regulations of the importing country, such as:

• Food safety certificates: For plastic bags used in the food industry, certificates must ensure consumer safety.
• Quality and safety standards: Many countries require quality inspections for products, especially when plastic bags directly contact food.

3. Detailed Export Procedures for Plastic Bags

The export procedure for plastic bags includes specific steps as follows:

3.1. Step 1: Market Research and Export Standards

Before exporting, businesses need to conduct market research to understand the needs, standards, and regulations of the target country. Factors to consider include:

• Market demand: Understanding the consumption level of plastic bags in the target market.
• Quality standards: Requirements for quality and safety for exported products.

3.2. Step 2: Prepare Export Documentation

Export documentation must be prepared thoroughly and accurately to ensure smooth customs clearance. The documentation includes:

• Commercial Invoice: Clearly stating transaction information, including product name, quantity, value, and buyer/seller information.
• Packing List: Information about how the goods are packaged, weight, and dimensions of each package.
• Bill of Lading: Document confirming that goods have been handed over to the carrier.
• Certificate of Origin: If needed, to confirm product origin and benefit from tax incentives.
• Export License: Although plastic bags do not require an export license, businesses should verify the requirements of the importing country.

3.3. Step 3: Register Customs and Declare in the Electronic Customs System

After preparing documentation, businesses need to declare customs through the electronic system (VNACCS/VCIS):

1. Electronic Declaration: Businesses input all information about the goods into the system.
2. Documentation Review: Customs will check and request additional information if the documentation is incomplete.
3. Goods Inspection: Depending on the risk level of the shipment, customs may request a physical inspection.

3.4. Step 4: Request Quality Inspection Certificates (if required)

For certain items or when required by the importing country, businesses need to request quality inspection certificates. This process includes:

• Contacting a quality inspection organization: Businesses may collaborate with inspection organizations like Quatest, Vinacontrol, or other international entities.
• Conducting Inspections: The inspection organization will conduct product checks and issue certificates if the product meets the standards.

3.5. Step 5: Packaging and Shipping the Goods

Goods must be carefully packaged to ensure safety during transportation. Requirements include:

• Proper packaging: Plastic bags should be packaged to avoid damage and facilitate transport.
• Handing over to the carrier: The carrier will take responsibility for transporting the goods to the export port.

3.6. Step 6: Payment and Delivery

Common payment methods in export transactions include:

• Letter of Credit (L/C): Ensuring the rights of both parties.
• Bank Transfer: A quick processing payment method through banking systems.

After payment is completed, the goods will be delivered to the buyer, concluding the export process.

3.7. Step 7: Follow-up and Post-Export Management

Businesses need to monitor the status of goods after export, including:

• Confirming Delivery: Checking to ensure that the goods have been delivered on time and meet quality standards.
• Feedback from Customers: Receiving feedback from customers to improve products and services.

4. Conclusion

Exporting plastic bags is a complex but promising process. Businesses need to understand legal regulations, procedural steps, and quality standards to ensure smooth export operations. Ipologistics is committed to supporting customers in completing export procedures professionally and effectively, helping businesses expand their export markets and enhance competitive positions.

For more detailed information or assistance with export procedures, please contact the Ipologistics team for free consultation.