Vietnam suspends food safety decree after delays hit fresh agricultural imports

Vietnam has temporarily suspended implementation of its new food safety regulation, Decree 46, after the measure caused congestion at border checkpoints and delayed the clearance of imported food shipments, including fresh agricultural products, according to the United States Department of Agriculture’s Foreign Agricultural Service (USDA FAS).

The government halted enforcement of the decree on 4 February 2026, initially until 15 April 2026, while authorities review procedures and prepare additional guidance for inspection agencies and importers. During this period, the previous regulatory framework continues to apply.

Under the new rules, shipments were subject to additional documentation requirements and inspection procedures before customs release. These changes led to backlogs at border crossings, with trucks carrying fresh produce among the cargo affected, raising concerns about delays for perishable goods moving through the supply chain.

Authorities indicated that the temporary suspension is intended to ease pressure on border operations and allow time to refine implementation measures without disrupting trade in time-sensitive products.

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photo: goglobal.moit.gov.vn