Vietnam's Ministry of Information and Communications has enacted new regulations targeting potentially unsafe information technology and communications (ICT) products.

Circular 04/2023/TT-BTTTT, which takes effect on May 15, 2024, establishes a list of these products and outlines stricter conformity certification and declaration requirements.

The move aims to strengthen consumer safety and ensure imported ICT goods meet Vietnamese technical standards. Products now requiring additional certification and declaration include radio transmitters and receivers across a wide frequency range, including those used in mobile communications infrastructure (like 5G base stations).

The regulations also cover radar equipment, short-range radio devices, and information technology equipment such as computers and tablets.

The Ministry highlights that the quality management of these products will be subject to more rigorous oversight and must comply with relevant technical regulations.

The regulations apply to both standalone ICT products and those integrated into other goods. Where multiple technical regulations apply, products must demonstrate conformity across all relevant standards.

The new circular emphasizes alignment with existing technical regulations while providing a framework for updating the compliance regime as new standards emerge.

In cases of ambiguity regarding the classification of imported goods, the Ministry of Information and Communications will work with the General Department of Customs to provide guidance for unified implementation.