Vietnam: GVN Reformed Decree Guiding the Law on Food Safety
This report provides a summary and unofficial translation of Decree 15/2018/ND-CP, dated February 2, 2018, of the Government of Vietnam (GVN), regulating the implementation of a number of articles on the Food Safety Law. Most significantly, this Decree sets new simplified registration procedures for prepackaged and processed foods, as well as establishes a new import inspection regime to replace existing regulations. In addition, this Decree consolidates existing registration regulations for the export of food derived from terrestrial animals, aquatic animals and plants to Vietnam. This Decree also reassigns the responsibilities for establishing maximum residue limits (MRLs) for agrochemicals, including veterinary drugs and pesticides, from the Ministry of Health to the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development. The Decree went into effect on February 2, 2018, replacing Decree 38/2012 (dated April 25, 2012), which had previously regulated the implementation of a number of articles in the Law on Food Safety (FSL). Post will issue an updated FAIRS Report at later date to reflect the new effects of Decree 15 on the export of food and agricultural products to Vietnam.
