Imported Goods Held for Nearly Two Months Due to Conflicting Regulations

A recent dialogue conference in Ho Chi Minh City revealed significant frustration among import businesses regarding the ambiguous regulations surrounding food additives, processing aids, and food enzymes. Companies are reporting that their goods have been stuck at ports for almost two months, incurring substantial demurrage charges, due to a lack of clear classification and inspection guidelines.

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Doanh nghiệp nhập khẩu phụ gia, chất hỗ trợ chế biến và men thực phẩm. Tuy nhiên, chỉ phụ gia nằm trong danh mục kiểm tra an toàn thực phẩm, còn các chất hỗ trợ chế biến và men lại không có trong danh mục nên doanh nghiệp không biết có phải đăng ký kiểm tra chất lượng hay không.

One importer, Mr. Nguyễn Ngọc Vàng of Tú Anh Import-Export Trading Co., Ltd., expressed his company's distress over goods being "held" at the port. His company imports food additives, processing aids, and food enzymes. While additives are clearly subject to food safety inspections, the other categories lack clear directives, leaving businesses uncertain about registration requirements. Despite submitting applications to various agencies, they were rejected or asked for revisions without specific guidance, leading to prolonged delays.

Officials from the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Food Safety acknowledged the confusion, stating that if a substance functions as both an additive and a processing aid, its classification depends on its primary nature and use. They advised businesses to consult the customs authorities and the Food Safety Department for specific guidance. However, they admitted that the department primarily manages local oversight, while import inspections fall under the Ministry of Health's purview. The department has repeatedly requested detailed instructions from the Ministry but has yet to receive them.

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Hiện sở chỉ quản lý tại địa phương, còn việc kiểm tra hàng nhập khẩu thuộc thẩm quyền hướng dẫn của Bộ Y tế. Sở An toàn thực phẩm cũng đã nhiều lần có văn bản kiến nghị nhưng đến nay vẫn chưa nhận được hướng dẫn đầy đủ.

This regulatory ambiguity is not only causing financial hardship, with daily storage costs mounting, but also disrupting the supply chain. The customs department representative noted that the definition of "food processing aid" is currently vague, and the absence of a detailed list from the Ministry of Health is exacerbating the problem. This situation highlights a critical need for clearer, more detailed regulations to facilitate smooth trade and support businesses operating within Vietnam.

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Khái niệm chất hỗ trợ chế biến thực phẩm hiện nay "khá mơ hồ".