Labeling and Vietnamese Language Compliance Rules in 2025



Labeling and Vietnamese Language Compliance Rules in 2025

Published on 23/12/2025

Labeling and Vietnamese Language Compliance Rules in 2025

Step 1: Understanding the Regulatory Framework for Drug Registration in Vietnam

In Vietnam, drug registration is overseen by the Drug Administration of Vietnam (DAV), which operates under the Ministry of Health. The first step in ensuring compliance is understanding the legal framework governing pharmaceutical products, including the WHO’s guidelines and the specific regulations set forth by DAV. Key documents include the Law on Pharmaceuticals and its implementing decrees, which outline the requirements for drug registration, labeling, and advertising.

Recognizing the importance of local legislation, regulatory affairs professionals must familiarize themselves with Circular No. 32/2018/TT-BYT, which details the guidelines for drug registration procedures. This circular is essential for understanding the classification of pharmaceutical products, as they can be categorized into prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and herbal medicines, each with distinct regulatory pathways.

Furthermore, professionals must comply with the Decree No. 54/2017/ND-CP, which governs the management of drug imports and the issuance of drug registration certificates. It is crucial to know how these regulations impact

labeling requirements and the Vietnamese language stipulations for drug labels.

Step 2: Preparing the Dossier for Drug Registration

The preparation of a comprehensive registration dossier is critical. The dossier should be well-organized and thorough, as it forms the basis of the evaluation process by DAV. A typical registration dossier includes sections such as:

  • Administrative information: Details of the applicant, product name, and proposed labeling.
  • Quality information: Documentation on the manufacturing process, specifications, and stability studies.
  • Preclinical and clinical data: Evidence of safety and efficacy from relevant studies.
  • Labeling proposals: Samples of the proposed labels in both Vietnamese and other languages, if applicable.

For a complete dossier, ensure compliance with the required formats set forth in the relevant regulations. Each section must be formatted according to the guidelines provided in Circular No. 32/2018/TT-BYT. Pay special attention to the quality section, where Good Manufacturing Practice (GMP) certificates may also need to be included to demonstrate compliance with manufacturing standards.

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Step 3: Ensuring Compliance with Vietnamese Language Requirements for Labeling

Vietnamese language requirements are integral to the drug registration process. All labeling must be conducted in Vietnamese, including the product name, active ingredients, directions for use, contraindications, side effects, and storage conditions. This requirement ensures that the information is accessible and comprehensible to healthcare professionals and patients.

To achieve compliance, it is recommended to engage a qualified Vietnam DAV drug registration consultant, who is familiar with local language nuances and regulatory expectations. Labels must not only be translated accurately but also must adhere to formatting guidelines specified in the aforementioned regulations.

It is imperative that the font size, color, and positioning of information meet DAV’s standards. Information on the label should be presented clearly and legibly, typically requiring sufficient contrast against the background to facilitate readability.

Step 4: Submission of the Registration Dossier

Following the preparation of the dossier, the next step involves submitting the application to the DAV. The submission process can be nuanced, requiring adherence to specific protocols. Initially, a pre-assessment of the dossier is advisable to gauge completeness and adherence to applicable regulations.

Upon submission, the applicant must fill out an application form along with the dossier. The DAV will typically acknowledge receipt within a specified period. The timing for evaluation can vary; however, a typical duration for processing applications can range from 6 months to 1 year, depending on the product classification and complexity.

Step 5: Responding to Queries and Requests for Additional Information

During the review phase, the DAV may request additional information or clarification regarding the submitted dossier. It is vital for the applicant to respond promptly and comprehensively to any queries to avoid delays in the approval process. Engage actively with DAV representatives during this phase, maintaining clear and open communication. The timeline for responses should be monitored closely, providing all requested information within established deadlines.

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Documentation like amendments to the dossier may be required, particularly if discrepancies or new data arise during the review process. Such amendments should be meticulously noted and formally logged to ensure thorough tracking and accountability.

Step 6: Approval and Receipt of the Drug Registration Certificate

Upon successful completion of the evaluation process and satisfaction of any outstanding inquiries, the DAV will issue a Drug Registration Certificate. This certificate signifies that the drug is authorized for importation and distribution within Vietnam. Understanding the conditions of the approval is crucial, as the certificate will outline specific marketing obligations and any additional studies that may be required post-approval.

The recipient must review the certificate thoroughly to familiarize themselves with the approved indications, dosage forms, and other relevant details. It is also essential to note the validity period of the registration, as renewals must be considered to maintain compliance with local regulations.

Step 7: Post-Marketing Surveillance and Reporting Obligations

After obtaining market authorization, pharmaceutical companies have a responsibility to ensure ongoing compliance with local regulations. Post-marketing surveillance becomes necessary to monitor drug safety and efficacy in the general population. The regulations stipulate that companies must implement a pharmacovigilance system and report any adverse drug reactions (ADRs) to the DAV within set timelines.

As part of the ongoing regulatory responsibilities, it is required to maintain records of all ADR reports and communicate these to healthcare providers and consumers as needed. Regular evaluation of product performance beyond initial clinical studies further safeguards patient wellbeing and aligns with Good Pharmacovigilance Practices (GVP) as mandated by ICH and WHO guidelines.

Monitoring market trends and competitor activities also plays an essential role in this phase. Organizations should be adaptive and responsive to any changes in regulatory expectations and ensure that product labeling stays compliant with upcoming legislation.

Also Read:  Pharmacovigilance and Safety Reporting to DAV in 2025

Conclusion: Navigating the Drug Registration Process in Vietnam

Successfully navigating the drug registration and labeling compliance landscape in Vietnam involves meticulous preparation, knowledge of the relevant regulations, and responsive engagement with the DAV. By following the outlined steps meticulously, regulatory affairs professionals can facilitate a smoother pathway to approval for their pharmaceutical products.

Collaboration with experienced local consultants will greatly enhance understanding and navigation through local regulatory intricacies. Through an effective drug registration process, companies can ensure that their products reach the Vietnamese market while adhering to all regulatory demands effectively.