The Vietnamese government recently issued Decree No. 60/2023/ND-CP, which provides clear regulations on imported automobiles and parts. The decree specifically states that recalled vehicles include not only those announced by manufacturers but also those recalled at the request of inspection agencies. Inspection agencies can request recalls based on relevant evidence and feedback.

Responsibilities of importers and the recall process

When a vehicle has technical defects requiring a recall, importers have strict responsibilities and time limits:

Within 5 working days of receiving the recall notice, notify sellers to stop selling defective vehicles.
Within 10 working days, submit a detailed written report to the inspection agency and publish the recall plan and list on relevant websites.
Rights and responsibilities of inspection agencies

In addition to routine vehicle inspections, if importers provide evidence that manufacturers are not cooperating with recall plans, inspection agencies have the right to suspend inspection and certification procedures for all vehicles from that manufacturer. For vehicles requiring recalls that have not yet been certified, inspection agencies will cooperate with customs to allow importers to temporarily retrieve goods for repairs.

Effective and applicable dates of the decree

Decree No. 60/2023/ND-CP officially took effect on October 1, 2023, and will apply to automotive products starting August 1, 2025. This provides importers and manufacturers ample time to adjust and adapt to the new regulations.

Original text of Decree No. 60/2023/ND-CP:

https://datafiles.chinhphu.vn/cpp/files/vbpq/2023/8/60-cp.signed.pdf