Tiếng Việt
IMPORT PROCEDURES FOR NON-DAIRY CREAMER BY IPO LOGISTICS
1. General Introduction to Non-Dairy Creamer
IMPORT PROCEDURES FOR NON-DAIRY CREAMER, also known as plant-based cream powder, is a product derived from vegetable oils, used as a substitute for milk in various food and beverage applications, such as instant coffee, soy milk, bubble tea, desserts, and many other food products. This ingredient is popular in the food industry due to its ability to enhance creaminess, smoothness, and because it contains no lactose, making it suitable for individuals who are allergic or intolerant to lactose.
Importing non-dairy creamer requires compliance with many regulations related to food safety and customs to ensure the product meets quality standards in Vietnam.
2. Determining HS Code for Non-Dairy Creamer
The HS Code is a crucial tool for determining tariff rates and management regulations for imported goods. For non-dairy creamer, the commonly used HS Codes are:
- HS Code 2106.90: This group includes other food products not specified elsewhere, including non-dairy creamer.
- 2106.9099: Non-dairy creamer containing no dairy ingredients.
- 2106.90.72: For products with special formulations or ingredients, such as processed vegetable oils or genetically modified (GMO) components.
Before importing, businesses need to verify the HS code with customs authorities to accurately identify the correct HS code, as incorrect classification may lead to legal issues and higher tax rates.
3. Product Declaration and Food Safety Inspection Procedures
Non-dairy creamer falls under the category of processed foods, thus it must comply with strict food safety regulations in Vietnam. IPO Logistics will assist businesses with this process, including:
3.1. Product Declaration
- Decree 15/2018/ND-CP detailing food safety requires all imported food products to be declared before being circulated in the market.
- The product declaration file includes:
- Business registration certificate of the importing company.
- Food safety and hygiene certification.
- Test results of the product (conducted by an authorized testing facility within the last 12 months).
- Self-declaration form as per regulations of state authorities.
This documentation must be submitted to the food safety management agency, typically the Food Safety Department under the Ministry of Health.
3.2. Quality Inspection at the Port of Entry
- Before clearance, non-dairy creamer must undergo quality inspection at the port of entry. The parameters to be inspected include:
- Microorganisms: Ensuring the product is free from harmful bacteria and molds.
- Chemical Indicators: Checking for additives, preservatives, and colorings to ensure compliance with regulations.
- Nutritional Content: Verifying the nutritional composition such as fat, protein, and carbohydrates.
To ensure compliance, businesses should send product samples to certified testing centers in advance.
4. Documentation and Customs Procedures
When importing non-dairy creamer, businesses must prepare a complete set of documents for customs declaration. IPO Logistics will assist in completing the import dossier, including:
4.1. Import Documents
- Commercial Invoice: A document issued by the seller (foreign supplier) detailing the value of the shipment and delivery conditions (FOB, CIF, etc.).
- Packing List: Detailed information about quantities, types of goods, packaging methods, and the weight of each package.
- Bill of Lading: A document issued by the shipping company confirming that the goods have been dispatched.
- Certificate of Origin: This document is essential for determining preferential tariffs (if applicable), especially for countries with free trade agreements with Vietnam.
- Phytosanitary Certificate (if applicable): Required for certain products if they contain ingredients from plants.
4.2. Electronic Customs Declaration
- IPO Logistics will support businesses in declaring customs through the VNACCS/VCIS system, filling in all necessary information about the shipment, HS code, value of goods, and related documents. After declaration, the system will classify the shipment for inspection:
- Green Lane: Goods are cleared immediately, no physical inspection required.
- Yellow Lane: Document inspection.
- Red Lane: Physical inspection of goods along with document verification.
5. Tax Rates and Fees for Importing
Non-dairy creamer is subject to various taxes and fees upon import, including:
5.1. Import Tax
- The import tax rate for non-dairy creamer depends on the HS code and the country of origin of the product. If imported from countries with free trade agreements (FTAs) with Vietnam such as South Korea, China, or ASEAN countries, the import tax may benefit from a preferential rate, ranging from 0% to 5%.
5.2. Value Added Tax (VAT)
- Non-dairy creamer, being a processed food product, is subject to value added tax (VAT) at a rate of 10%.
5.3. Customs Fees and Other Charges
- Various customs fees such as declaration fees, physical inspection fees (if applicable), and testing fees at the port of entry should also be factored into the total import cost.
6. Import Process for Non-Dairy Creamer by IPO Logistics
Step 1: Negotiation and Signing the Foreign Trade Contract
- IPO Logistics will work directly with the foreign supplier to negotiate transaction terms, including delivery conditions (FOB, CIF), payment methods (L/C, T/T), and delivery time. A foreign trade contract will be drafted and signed in accordance with legal regulations.
Step 2: Obtaining Permits and Product Declaration
- IPO Logistics will assist businesses in completing the product declaration process at the Ministry of Health and obtaining import permits if the product has specific requirements (e.g., if it contains genetically modified components or special additives).
Step 3: Quality Inspection and Food Safety
- Prior to clearance, IPO Logistics will register for food safety inspections at the quarantine agency and submit product samples for testing at designated centers.
Step 4: Preparing and Checking Customs Documentation
- Preparing a complete import document set, including invoices, bills of lading, certificates of origin, packing lists, and related documents.
Step 5: Declaration and Tax Payment
- Conducting electronic customs declaration through the VNACCS system, paying import taxes and VAT.
Step 6: Clearance and Delivery
- After completing the inspection and document verification process, the shipment will be cleared and delivered to the company’s warehouse.
7. Legal Aspects and Considerations When Importing Non-Dairy Creamer
7.1. Labeling Requirements
- All imported non-dairy creamer products must have clear labeling, including information such as product name, ingredients, manufacturer, usage instructions, production date, expiration date, and importer information.
7.2. Food Safety Requirements
- Products must comply with safety regulations regarding microorganisms, chemical composition, and nutritional indicators. Non-compliance can lead to import rejection or product destruction.
7.3. Storage and Transportation
- Non-dairy creamer needs to be stored in dry, cool conditions to ensure quality. IPO Logistics will ensure safe transportation in compliance with product storage regulations.
8. Conclusion
The process of importing non-dairy creamer into Vietnam requires adherence to stringent food safety regulations and customs procedures. IPO Logistics, with its experience in logistics and import-export operations, will assist businesses in ensuring every step is legally compliant, minimizing risks, and ensuring smooth customs clearance.
