Potatoes are among the most widely used food items in the food industry and food processing. Since domestic potato production only meets about 40% of consumption demand in Vietnam, it is necessary to import potatoes from other countries (such as China, India, Japan, etc.).

Is the procedure for importing potatoes complicated in Vietnam?

There are many circulars and decrees related to potatoes, so here are the main points:

Potatoes are not on the list of prohibited import items, but you must apply for an import permit (even for fresh potatoes imported for food purposes).

Types of imported potatoes include: fresh potatoes for food, fresh potatoes for seeding, fresh potatoes for processing, and processed potatoes (e.g., potato candy, etc.).

Depending on the purpose of importing the potatoes, you will follow a specific procedure to avoid additional costs, delays, or even having to return the shipment if you are not well-prepared.

Procedure for Importing Fresh Potatoes in Vietnam:

Required documents for customs clearance of fresh potatoes:

A full set of documents includes:

• Contract
• Invoice
• Packing List
• Import Permit
• Phytosanitary Certificate
• Bill of Lading
• Certificate of Origin (COO)
• Other documents (depending on the market)

Phytosanitary and Food Safety Inspection Procedures

Fresh potato imports must undergo phytosanitary inspection and food safety inspection, following the steps below:

Apply for a phytosanitary import permit:

If your shipment arrives at the port before you have the permit, you’ll need to wait 2–3 weeks to obtain one.

Phytosanitary declaration:

The company declares the phytosanitary dossier on the National Single Window system or PQS.

(Documents required – see above.)

Submit phytosanitary application:

Submit the documents to the Plant Quarantine Sub-Department to get the registration form stamped and certified.

File the customs declaration and take samples:

Work with customs and phytosanitary officers. The seal will be broken to take samples of the imported fresh potatoes for inspection.

Receive phytosanitary certificate:

If the imported fresh potatoes meet quality standards, the business will receive the phytosanitary certificate and submit it to customs.

Can fresh potatoes with soil be imported in Vietnam?

No. Fresh potatoes must not contain soil and must not sprout. If soil is found, the shipment may be fined and returned (This procedure is very complicated)

Inspectors are very strict about this.

To avoid problems, proper preparation is necessary from the beginning.

For consultation, please call Mr. Long  +84902620898.

Customs clearance for Importing Fresh Potatoes in Vietnam

• Carefully check all documents required for the customs clearance process (see above).
• Proceed with the customs declaration for the fresh potatoes.
• File the import customs declaration at the port or airport.
• Simultaneously carry out phytosanitary and food safety procedures.
• Clear customs and retrieve the goods.

Important Notes When Importing Fresh Potatoes

• The VAT (Value Added Tax) on fresh potatoes is 0%.
• The exporting country must be on the list of countries allowed to export plant-based food to Vietnam.
• Fresh potatoes must not contain soil upon import into Vietnam.

Fresh Potato Import Services by Sea Dragon Logistics

Sea Dragon Logistics provides services including:

• Import procedures for fresh potatoes
• Phytosanitary inspection
• Food safety certification
• Product declaration
• International freight forwarding, etc.

All done quickly and accurately. Learn more [HERE].

Contact Mr. Long: +84902620898 or jack@seadragonlogistics.com for further consultation!

Source: Sea Dragon International Logistics Co., Ltd.