Government Extends Suspension of Decree 46: Easing Pressure on Imported Food Supply Chains
24/03/2026
The Vietnamese Government has decided to extend the suspension of Decree 46/2026/ND-CP and Resolution 66.13/2026/NQ-CP on imported food safety management, supporting smoother cargo flows and reducing operational pressure on logistics providers and manufacturers.
Impact of Pre-Clearance Requirements on Logistics Costs
Previous pre-clearance control measures required businesses to complete:
Previous pre-clearance control measures required businesses to complete:
- Product conformity self-declaration registration
- Multi-stage testing prior to customs clearance
Processing time averaged 10–12 days per shipment, resulting in:
- Container backlogs at ports and border gates
- Increased storage, demurrage, and detention costs
- Disruptions to production schedules due to delayed raw material supply
According to industry associations, more than 1,300 containers of food raw materials were held during peak periods, highlighting the strain across the supply chain.
Extension Benefits: Restoring Clearance Efficiency
The extension allows businesses to continue applying the previous regulatory framework, enabling:
Extension Benefits: Restoring Clearance Efficiency
The extension allows businesses to continue applying the previous regulatory framework, enabling:
- Faster customs clearance
- Reduced port congestion
- Greater stability in import and distribution planning
This supports companies in:
- Maintaining consistent lead times
- Controlling logistics cost fluctuations
- Improving inventory and production planning
Policy Direction: Transition Towards Risk-Based Post-Clearance Control
Regulators are moving towards:
Regulators are moving towards:
- Risk-based post-clearance inspection mechanisms
- Focused control on high-risk product categories
- Simplified procedures for compliant businesses
This approach balances:
- Food safety requirements
- Operational efficiency for businesses
What Businesses Should Do Now
As policies may continue to evolve, businesses should:
- Closely monitor regulatory updates
- Build flexible transport and sourcing plans
- Work closely with logistics partners to manage lead time and costs
Immediate Actions for Importers
- Review imported food product portfolios
- Update documentation processes in line with current regulations
- Plan shipments proactively to avoid congestion during policy transitions
Contact Vantage Logistics for a detailed consultation.