Is it necessary to get permission from the Ministry of Health to open a cosmetics manufacturing plant in Vietnam?
Starting a business in the cosmetics industry has become a "hot" trend as the demand for beauty products continues to rise in Vietnam. However, many companies—especially foreign investors—are still puzzled by the question: “To open a cosmetics manufacturing plant, do we need permission from the Ministry of Health?” Though it seems simple, this question hides significant legal risks if the regulations are not fully understood.
Cosmetics manufacturing – a conditional industry in Vietnam
The cosmetics market in Vietnam is not only full of potential but also a fertile "goldmine" for both domestic and international investors. However, producing cosmetics is not simply about buying raw materials and starting to formulate. This is a sector subject to strict legal control, as it directly affects consumer health. Therefore, the first step to legally enter this field is a clear understanding of the accompanying legal requirements.
Do you just need capital to build the plant?
Unlike ordinary business sectors, cosmetics manufacturing in Vietnam is classified as a conditional business. Specifically, a company is only allowed to produce cosmetics once it meets certain legal requirements, particularly regarding infrastructure, human resources, and product quality standards.
In principle, setting up a company to manufacture cosmetics must comply with the Law on Enterprises and the Law on Investment. However, to start actual production, the enterprise must obtain a Certificate of Eligibility for Cosmetics Production from the Department of Health at the local level where the factory is located.
Role of the Ministry of Health in cosmetic production
Many people mistakenly believe they must get permission directly from the Ministry of Health in Hanoi. In reality, under current regulations, it is the local Department of Health that is authorized to grant the Certificate of Eligibility for Cosmetics Production, based on guidelines issued by the Ministry. The Ministry of Health only issues technical standards and performs post-inspection oversight.
Therefore, you do NOT need to obtain direct permission from the Ministry of Health to open a cosmetics factory in Vietnam, but you still must meet the conditions set forth by that Ministry.
Legal requirements for obtaining the cosmetics production license
Many companies rush to set up a cosmetics factory only to discover later that: “Without the Certificate of Eligibility for Production, the product cannot be legally circulated.” In fact, Vietnamese law clearly defines mandatory standards for cosmetic factories—from technical infrastructure to qualified personnel. Understanding and preparing thoroughly not only saves time during the licensing process but also minimizes the risk of receiving administrative penalties during operation.
Mandatory conditions according to Circular 06/2011/TT-BYT:
Location, area, storage standards: The factory layout must be divided into separate zones for raw materials, production, packaging, and storage. Ventilation, lighting, and sanitation must comply with regulations.
Specialized equipment: Including mixers, filling machines, packaging machines, sterilization units—depending on product types.
Qualified personnel in charge: The production supervisor must have at least a university degree in pharmacy or a related field.
Quality control system: There must be procedures, personnel, and equipment in place to test product quality before market release.
Application dossier and licensing procedure
The dossier includes:
Application form for the Certificate of Eligibility
Copy of Business Registration Certificate
List of equipment
Factory layout diagram
Description of production and quality control processes
Degrees/certificates of the technical specialist in charge
The Department of Health will evaluate the dossier and conduct an on-site inspection. If all conditions are met, the certificate is issued within 30 working days.
How DEDICA supported a client in opening a cosmetics factory
One of DEDICA’s clients—Company B, a foreign investor—planned to build an organic cosmetics factory in Binh Duong. Despite having investment and business registration certificates, the company repeatedly had to supplement or amend its file because the factory layout and staff qualifications did not meet production standards.
Seeing that this delay could impact the project timeline and increase costs, DEDICA stepped in quickly. We:
Reviewed the entire dossier: Identified missing quality control systems and structural design issues;
Advised factory improvements: Connected the client with certified GMP design and construction firms as per Ministry guidelines;
Recruited qualified personnel: Assisted in hiring certified pharmacists to meet staff requirements;
Prepared the file and liaised with the Department of Health: Represented the client throughout submission, explanation, and inspection processes.
Result: Within 45 days, Company B received its Certificate of Eligibility for Cosmetics Production and started operations on schedule. Moreover, all legal procedures were standardized for future expansion.
Final thoughts
Cosmetics is an attractive industry—but not “easy” if you overlook legal conditions. That’s why, when considering setting up a cosmetics company in Vietnam, make sure to research thoroughly or contact reputable legal firms and lawyers to support your business.
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