HANDLING IMPORTED GOODS BEARING THE ® SYMBOL: LATEST CUSTOMS GUIDELINES

25/08/2026

The Customs Department recently issued Official Dispatch No. 20601/CHQ-GSQL on August 19, 2026, providing guidelines on handling imported goods that feature the ® (Registered) symbol on the product or packaging, even when the trademark is not yet protected in Viet Nam. Notably, goods in this scenario will not automatically be classified as counterfeit.

The ® Symbol Does Not Automatically Mean Counterfeit Goods

According to the Customs guidance, the presence of the ® symbol on a product or its packaging, when the trademark is not protected in Viet Nam, is not by itself sufficient to determine that the goods are counterfeit.

However, importers must ensure that information regarding the trademark’s protection status in Viet Nam is accurately addressed in accordance with applicable labeling requirements.

Recommended Actions for Businesses

For imported goods bearing the ® symbol where the trademark is not legally protected in Viet Nam, customs declarants must:

• Submit a written commitment to the Customs authority regarding the application of supplementary labels (sub-labels).
• Provide accurate and truthful information on the supplementary label regarding the actual protection status of the trademark in Viet Nam.
• Strictly comply with all labeling requirements for imported goods.

Customs authorities will review the written commitment and proceed with customs clearance, provided the shipment has no other regulatory violations.

Key Takeaways for Businesses

Before shipping goods to Viet Nam, businesses should proactively:

1. Verify the trademark’s protection status within Viet Nam
2. Review the original labels and the ® symbol on the products and packaging
3. Prepare appropriate and compliant content for supplementary labels in advance
4. Gather all necessary documentation regarding product origins and specifications

Crucially, businesses should never wait until the cargo arrives at the port to address labeling issues. Pre-shipment checks help identify compliance requirements early on, significantly minimizing potential hurdles, delays, and unexpected costs during the customs clearance process.

For branded import shipments, always proactively verify labeling and documentation requirements prior to transit. Contact Vantage Logistics for expert assistance in preparing and executing your import customs procedures smoothly.

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