VINACHEM

Vietnam is stepping up efforts to amend its Chemical Law, proposing stricter regulations on chemical imports to bolster oversight and safety measures.

The draft amendment, according to the Vietnam News Agency, includes a pivotal provision mandating the declaration of all chemical imports. This move aims to address concerns surrounding the importation of hazardous chemicals without adequate oversight.

Under the proposed changes, all chemicals entering Vietnam would undergo declaration through the national single window portal. This measure seeks to strengthen regulatory control and prevent the misuse of chemicals for unauthorized purposes.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MOIT) plans to implement special confirmation requirements for chemicals listed under special control categories, akin to existing protocols outlined in Government Decree 82/2022/ND-CP. The objective is to enhance monitoring and ensure compliance with safety standards.

The Department of Chemicals under the MOIT has highlighted challenges stemming from loose import declaration regulations, which have led to the potential entry of hazardous substances without proper documentation or oversight. The proposed amendments aim to address these regulatory gaps and mitigate associated risks.

As industrial activities diversify, Vietnam faces hurdles in promptly updating its chemical declaration list to accommodate newly imported substances, posing challenges for effective chemical management and control.

Loose import declaration regulations have facilitated unauthorized usage of hazardous chemicals for commercial purposes, underscoring the need for stricter oversight and enforcement measures.

Moreover, the proposed amendments seek to enhance expertise in chemical consultancy services by introducing requirements for specialized credentials. This initiative aligns with broader efforts to improve regulatory standards and ensure competence in the chemical sector.   – Saigon Times –