Classification
Product TypeProcessed Food
Product FormShelf-stable packaged
Industry PositionProcessed Consumer Food Product
Market
Vietnam is a large consumer market for shelf-stable biscuits and cookies, supplied by domestic manufacturers alongside imported brands. Major producers with national distribution include Mondelēz Kinh Do (e.g., OREO and Cosy biscuits) and local confectionery companies such as Huu Nghi Food, Bibica, Hai Ha Confectionery, and Hai Chau Confectionery. Market access for imported packaged biscuits typically hinges on customs documentary compliance plus Vietnam’s food safety product self-declaration and labeling requirements before goods are circulated. Food additive use is regulated by Vietnam’s Ministry of Health (MOH) under Circular 24/2019/TT-BYT, which references alignment to Codex GSFA.
Market RoleDomestic production market with significant imports and nationwide consumption
Domestic RoleMainstream packaged snack category produced by local and multinational manufacturers for domestic retail and key accounts
SeasonalityYear-round availability driven by continuous manufacturing and steady import supply.
Risks
Regulatory Compliance HighNon-compliance with Vietnam’s food safety self-declaration regime and/or goods labeling rules (including Vietnamese labeling requirements for imported goods) can block market circulation and trigger enforcement actions (e.g., recall, forced re-export, or penalties).Complete Decree 15/2018 product self-declaration with valid lab testing, validate additive compliance to Circular 24/2019 by food category, and run a Vietnamese label pre-check against Decree 43/2017 as amended by Decree 111/2021 before shipment release.
Logistics MediumBiscuits/cookies are freight-intensive (bulky, low unit value), making landed costs sensitive to container freight volatility and port congestion; margin pressure is highest for imported finished goods and promotion-driven SKUs.Use longer-term freight contracts where feasible, optimize carton/pallet utilization, and keep a safety-stock policy for key SKUs supplied by sea freight.
Food Safety MediumAllergen mislabeling (e.g., wheat/gluten, milk, soy) or cross-contact controls in factories can trigger recalls and reputational damage in modern retail channels.Implement robust allergen control plans, validate label allergen statements in Vietnamese, and maintain documented traceability for rapid targeted recalls.
Sustainability LowRetailers and export buyers may apply sustainability screening for ingredients (e.g., palm oil/cocoa) and packaging, potentially affecting supplier qualification for branded biscuit/cookie programs.Maintain supplier declarations for responsible sourcing where applicable and develop packaging-reduction or recyclable-material roadmaps for key retail partners.
Sustainability- Palm-oil and cocoa ingredient sourcing may trigger buyer sustainability screening (deforestation-risk and responsible sourcing expectations) for branded biscuit/cookie portfolios
- Packaging waste reduction pressure (flexible plastics) from retailers and consumer expectations in major cities
Labor & Social- Supplier social compliance auditing may be requested by modern retail and export buyers; some Vietnamese manufacturers publicly report international certifications (e.g., SA8000) as part of their market positioning
Standards- FSSC 22000
- ISO 22000 / HACCP
- Halal certification (buyer/export dependent)
FAQ
Do imported packaged biscuits and cookies need a product self-declaration to be sold in Vietnam?Yes. Vietnam’s Decree 15/2018/ND-CP includes product self-declaration requirements for pre-packaged processed foods, supported by a product safety test result within the specified validity window, before the product is circulated on the Vietnamese market.
What core customs documents are commonly required to import biscuits and cookies into Vietnam?A customs declaration, a commercial invoice (when payment is due), and a bill of lading (or equivalent transport document) are core documents referenced in Vietnam’s customs documentary requirements. A certificate of origin is commonly needed when claiming preferential tariff treatment under an FTA.
How are food additives in biscuits and cookies regulated in Vietnam?Food additives are regulated by Vietnam’s Ministry of Health under Circular 24/2019/TT-BYT, which sets conditions for permitted additives and references alignment with Codex GSFA principles. Products should use only permitted additives for the relevant food category and within applicable limits.