Want to be in the loop?
subscribe to
our notification
Business News
RISKS OF SHOPPING ON UNLICENSED E-COMMERCE PLATFORMS IN VIETNAM
The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) warned about risks associated with shopping on unregistered cross-border e-commerce platforms in Vietnam, raising concerns over product quality, data security and tax obligations.
Risks of product quality and origin
According to the E-commerce and Digital Economy Agency (MoIT), many Vietnamese consumers are attracted to products on international e-commerce platforms for their low prices and diverse designs. However, these platforms often lack authorization to operate in Vietnam, meaning they are not subject to quality control or supervision by regulatory authorities. Certain cross-border platforms, such as Temu, 1688 and Shein, are accessible in Vietnam but have not completed the necessary registration procedures. In response, the MoIT directed departments to review the impact and propose solutions.
Consumers face high risks when purchasing counterfeit, imitation or untraceable products. These items may not meet safety standards and, in some cases, may even fall under categories of goods prohibited in Vietnam. Particularly for health-related and safety-sensitive products such as dietary supplements, cosmetics, children's toys and electronic devices, substandard products could pose serious health risks to consumers.
Challenges in protecting consumer rights
The E-commerce and Digital Economy Agency warned that unregistered cross-border e-commerce platforms are not regulated for product quality or after-sales service, making it difficult for consumers to protect their rights when issues arise.
Consumers are likely to encounter situations where products received do not match descriptions, are defective, or pose health and safety risks, yet requests for returns or warranties are often met with obstacles. In cases of disputes, unregistered e-commerce platforms are not legally accountable within Vietnam, making the complaint resolution process complex and prolonged. Consequently, consumers may suffer financial losses and face challenges in resolving issues with foreign suppliers.
Risks related to taxes and data security
In addition to risks concerning product quality, consumers should also be cautious of legal risks when purchasing from unregistered e-commerce platforms. Goods purchased from these platforms may not be fully declared for taxes upon import into Vietnam, leading to tax-related issues. Consumers could encounter situations where goods are held at customs or incur unexpected additional taxes, resulting in overall costs that exceed the original sale price.
Moreover, cross-border transactions often require consumers to provide international payment information, such as credit card or electronic wallet details. This presents potential security risks, as personal data could be stolen or misused, exposing consumers to financial information security risks.
To protect consumer rights and ensure safety, the MoIT advised the public to be cautious when transacting on e-commerce platforms, particularly unregistered cross-border ones. For safer transactions, consumers should choose licensed platforms regulated by government authorities.
Consumers can check the list of registered e-commerce platforms on the E-commerce Operations Management Portal at online.gov.vn or contact the MoIT’s Consumer Support Hotline for further information and guidance.
Source: VCCI
Related News
GLOBAL SOURCING FAIR VIETNAM 2025
Global Sourcing Fair Vietnam 2025, held from 24-26 April at the Saigon Exhibition & Convention Center (SECC), Ho Chi Minh City, is the must-attend international expo for sourcing Fashion & Accessories and Home & Gifts
VIETNAMESE ENTERPRISES GRAPPLE WITH CHALLENGES IN Q3
In many sectors, businesses acknowledged that simply breaking even was an accomplishment this year. A prominent example is Nam Sông Hậu Trading Investment Petroleum JSC, once a leading fuel distributor in the Mekong Delta.
CENTRAL BANK ISSUES NEW DECISIONS ON DEPOSIT INTEREST RATES
The other holds that the maximum interest rate for Vietnamese đồng-denominated deposits with terms of less than one month of organisations and individuals at credit institutions and foreign bank branches is 0.5 per cent per year. Additionally the maximum interest rate applied to deposits with terms from one month to less than six months is 4.75 per cent per year.
REAL ESTATE BUSINESSES EXPAND INTEREST IN AVAILABLE LAND TO THRIVE IN 2025
Real estate companies are vigorously seeking available land to prepare for a new wave of investment in 2025.The Ministry of Construction’s October report highlighted that legality, liquidity, and land use fees are the primary considerations for businesses selecting land investments.
VIETNAM SET TO ENHANCE CUSTOMS QUALITY AND EFFICIENCY
The policy outlines the GDC's objectives to enhance the effectiveness and efficiency of State customs management, align with development and international integration needs, and streamline the import, export and transit of goods, as well as the entry, exit and transit of means of transport.
HIGH-TECH PERSONNEL TO DRIVE COMPETITION
Vietnam is advancing new mechanisms and incentives to strengthen workforce quality as part of a strategy to engage high-tech investment and enhance its economic competitiveness. The government announced at a recent National Assembly (NA) session that it would increase investments in education and training quality in the next few months.