Vietnam Introduces Official Dual-Use Goods List under Strategic Trade Controls

Posted by Son Nguyen
Blog originally posted on 03/08/2026 11:30 AM

 

Vietnam Port

Vietnam’s Ministry of Science and Technology (MOST) issued Circular No. 30/2026/TT-BKHCN, effective 6 June 2026, to implement part of Vietnam’s strategic trade control framework under Decree No. 259/2025/ND-CP. The Circular introduces the official list of dual-use goods under MOST’s regulatory authority and sets out licensing, tracking, and traceability requirements.

Key Regulatory Overview

Circular 30/2026/TT-BKHCN covers certain dual-use goods that may be used for both civilian and military purposes, including:

    • Radioactive materials, nuclear equipment and nuclear materials
    • Electronics
    • Computers
    • Telecommunications, sensors and lasers

A key point for exporters is that goods are subject to licensing controls only when they simultaneously match the HS code, product description, and technical characteristics listed in the Appendix to the Circular.

The Circular also delegates licensing authority to provincial-level People’s Committees for the export, temporary import for re-export, transshipment, transit, and passage of covered dual-use goods.

Implications for Exporters

Exporters should note that HS classification alone is not sufficient to determine whether a product is controlled. Companies must also review product descriptions and technical specifications against the controlled list.

This is particularly relevant for companies exporting high-technology products, electronics, computer equipment, telecommunications equipment, sensors, lasers, radioactive materials, or nuclear-related items from Vietnam.

Exporters should consider taking the following actions:

    • Verify proper HS classifications are being used
    • Screen product portfolios with specifications against the Circular’s controlled list and its parameters
    • Assess whether export licenses are required prior to shipment
    • Strengthen end-use and end-user due diligence procedures
    • Maintain technical datasheets, HS classification records, transaction documents, and end-user information
    • Update internal export control procedures and train relevant personnel

How Tradewin Can Support

Tradewin can support companies in assessing the impact of Circular 30/2026/TT-BKHCN and strengthening their strategic trade control compliance processes in Vietnam. Our services may include:

    • Professional HS classification
    • Product screening against applicable HS codes, product descriptions, and technical parameters
    • Export license requirement assessment
    • Review of product master data and supporting documentation
    • End-use and end-user due diligence support
    • Development or enhancement of internal compliance procedures
    • Training for trade compliance, logistics, sales, and engineering personnel
    • Support in preparing license application documentation, where applicable
As Vietnam's strategic trade control regime becomes increasingly operational and product-specific, exporters should proactively review their products, processes, and documentation to help reduce licensing risks, shipment delays, and compliance exposure. If you have questions about how these requirements may affect your business, we’re here to help.

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Topics: Asia, United States, Customs, Trade Compliance, Vietnam, Tariffs, CBP, Managed Trade Services

Blog originally posted on 03/08/2026 11:30 AM

Son Nguyen

Written by Son Nguyen

Son leads the Tradewin practice in Vietnam. With 29 years of experience in customs and trade, he advises clients on Customs and trade-related matters in Vietnam. Son’s career commenced with Vietnam Customs in 1997 where he spent 12 years in various capacities, including policy and enforcement, before transitioning to the consulting industry in 2009. After leaving Vietnam Customs, Son served as a director in the Customs & Trade practice of a Big 4 consulting firm, assisting customers across all industries with professional advisory and trade data management. Most recently, prior to joining Tradewin in 2024, Son was part of the Trade Facilitation Project (TFP) in Vietnam as the deputy director, where he worked on initiatives with the Vietnam Department of Customs for implementing trade facilitation activities. Son graduated from the University of Economics of Ho Chi Minh City with a Master of Business Administration.