The Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT) has released a draft decree that all businesses can import cars provided they fulfil the required conditions and get a car import licence.

The draft decree specifies the conditions for importing automobiles as well as the procedures for getting auto import licence, to make it easier for enterprises.

In order to ensure transparency of import clauses, the draft decree has promulgated a list of cars that can be imported along with the condition of Harmonised Commodity Description and Coding System (HS) codes.

Accordingly, enterprises importing cars on this list must meet the conditions stipulated in the draft decree and must be granted a licence before the vehicle is imported.

For automobiles not on the list, enterprises must comply with regulations on automobile import management in other legal documents; in such cases, import procedures will be determined at the customs offices.

Importing enterprises have to choose one of three options: owning warranty and maintenance facilities; renting a warranty or maintenance facility for a minimum period of three years; or using warranty and maintenance facilities that belong to the enterprise’s distribution network.

To maintain a stable business environment and protect the long-term interests of consumers, the draft decree stipulates that importers are required to own at least a warranty and maintenance facility as prescribed in the decree until July 1, 2020.

There are conditions for warranty and maintenance facilities as well, including the requirement for workshops, warehouses, equipment, tools, human resources, quality management system, fire prevention mechanisms, environmental protection, labour safety and sanitation, in accordance with the law.

The specific standards for automobile maintenance and repair facilities are in the national standard TCVN 11794 on “Standard of automobile maintenance, repair and similar facilities”.

The ministry has committed that within seven working days of receiving the dossier, it will announce the inspection of the enterprise’s warranty and maintenance facilities. If the company fulfils all conditions, after another seven working days, the MoIT will issue an import car licence. — VNS