Exporting Wooden Chew Toys for Pets

Procedure for Exporting Wooden Chew Toys for Pets

1. Overview of the Product

Wooden chew toys for pets are made from natural, non-toxic wood and are increasingly popular in international markets. These products not only provide entertainment for pets but also support dental health. Vietnam is establishing itself in the global market for high-quality, safe wooden chew toys for pets.

2. Legal Framework Related to Exporting Wooden Chew Toys

2.1. Product Standards:

• Quality Standards: According to Decree No. 15/2018/ND-CP on food safety, exported products must meet safety standards and not contain harmful substances such as formaldehyde, heavy metals, or other toxic chemicals. Products must comply with international standards such as EN 71 (European safety standard for toys) or ASTM F963 (American safety standard for toys).
• Packaging and Storage: Under Circular No. 21/2019/TT-BNNPTNT, products must be packaged according to international standards to ensure they are not damaged during long-term transport. Labels must clearly indicate the origin, composition, usage instructions, and any warnings (if applicable).

2.2. Requirements for Exporting Companies:

• Business Registration Certificate: According to the Enterprise Law 2020, the exporting company must have a business registration certificate that includes the production and export of pet products as part of its business activities.
• Food Safety Certification: If the products are made from natural wood materials that could affect animal health, the company must obtain a food safety certificate as per Decree No. 15/2018/ND-CP.

2.3. Required Export Documentation:

• Certificate of Origin (C/O): As per Circular No. 05/2018/TT-BCT, a Certificate of Origin (C/O) must be issued by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) or authorized agencies. The C/O helps the products benefit from tariff preferences under free trade agreements (FTAs) that Vietnam is part of.
• Phytosanitary Certificate (if applicable): For wood-based products, many importing countries require a phytosanitary certificate according to Circular No. 33/2014/TT-BNNPTNT issued by the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development.

3. Export Procedure for Wooden Chew Toys for Pets

Step 1: Contract Negotiation

• Prepare and sign an export contract with the foreign partner, including terms on price, quantity, quality, payment methods, delivery conditions (Incoterms), and insurance. The contract should comply with the Civil Code 2015 and related regulations.

Step 2: Prepare the Goods

• Manufacture, inspect, and package the products according to international standards. Ensure that the products meet all safety and quality requirements before export.

Step 3: Apply for Certificate of Origin (C/O)

• Submit an application for C/O to VCCI. The application should include a C/O request form, commercial invoice, packing list, sales contract, and other relevant documents. This process follows Circular No. 05/2018/TT-BCT.

Step 4: Customs Declaration

• Perform electronic customs declaration through the VNACCS/VCIS system. The declaration should include the customs declaration form, commercial invoice, packing list, certificate of origin, and phytosanitary certificate (if applicable). This procedure follows Circular No. 38/2015/TT-BTC on customs procedures and tax management for exported goods.

Step 5: Customs Clearance

• Customs authorities will review the documentation and may conduct a physical inspection of the goods if necessary. If all requirements are met, the goods will be cleared for export. Customs clearance is governed by the Customs Law 2014.

Step 6: Transportation of Goods

• After customs clearance, coordinate with the transport company to ship the goods (by sea, air, etc.) to the importing country. This step must comply with international transport regulations and insurance requirements.

Step 7: Fulfill Tax and Fee Obligations

• Pay all related taxes and fees, including customs fees, phytosanitary fees (if applicable), and other charges. These obligations are defined in the Import-Export Tax Law 2016 and Circular No. 274/2016/TT-BTC.

Step 8: Payment and Contract Finalization

• After the goods are received by the partner and meet contract requirements, complete payment procedures and retain necessary documents for reconciliation and final settlement.

4. Taxes and Fees

• Export Tax: According to the current Export-Import Tariff Schedule, wooden chew toys for pets may not be subject to export tax. However, businesses should check specific details for accurate application.
• Customs Fees: Include fees for processing the declaration, storage, and other customs services. These fees are defined in Circular No. 214/2015/TT-BTC.
• Phytosanitary Fees (if applicable): This fee applies as specified in Circular No. 231/2016/TT-BTC on fees and charges in the field of plant protection.

5. Considerations When Exporting Wooden Chew Toys for Pets

• Product Quality: Ensure that the product meets the technical and safety standards required by the importing market. Thoroughly check the quality before export to avoid rejection or return of goods.
• Labeling: According to Decree No. 43/2017/ND-CP on goods labeling, the product must have clear labels including the product name, place of manufacture, ingredients, usage instructions, and warnings (if applicable).
• Update Legal Regulations: Regularly update on changes in legal regulations related to exporting pet toys to ensure compliance and avoid legal risks.

6. Conclusion

Exporting wooden chew toys for pets requires careful preparation and strict adherence to legal regulations. By following the correct procedures from production, quality inspection, to transportation and customs clearance, businesses can ensure that their products reach international consumers safely and efficiently, enhancing the reputation of their products in the global market.