From January 1, 2027, used smartphones, computers and many other digital technology devices will not be allowed to be imported into Vietnam.

The Ministry of Science and Technology issued Circular 63 on October 27, announcing in detail the list of used digital technology products banned from import with commodity codes (HS codes).

The category has many familiar electronic devices such as computers, smartphones and devices that transmit or receive voice, images, and data via wired or wireless networks. In addition, many devices for work and entertainment are also on the list, including microphones, speakers, headphones, digital cameras, television cameras, radio or television receivers, radars, navigation devices, and radio remote controls.

The list also includes screens, projectors, electronic components and supplies such as printed circuits, integrated electronic circuits, electronic lights, wires, electric cables and fiber optic cables, telephone and telegraph cables...

Printers, copiers, fax machines and accessories are also banned, but there are some exceptions. Specifically, multi-color digital printers and copiers are not included in the category. Used monochrome (black and white) digital printers and photocopiers that have the ability to print and copy in A0 size, or have a printing speed of 35 copies per minute in A4 size or higher are also excluded.

According to Circular 63, refurbished digital technology products with product codes in the above list will also be banned from import. This is understood as a used digital technology product that has been repaired or replaced to restore function, quality and appearance to be equivalent to a new product. Used parts, accessories, assemblies, and electronic components of these products are also subject to import ban.

In fact, the new list recently issued by the Ministry of Science and Technology still maintains many groups of equipment that were included in the list of information technology products banned from import issued by the (former) Ministry of Information and Communications in 2018. However, Circular 63 adds a clearer description for smartphones, specific regulations on refurbished products, used components and adds cases where printers and photocopiers are excluded from the list.

The new regulations also clearly state that used technology lines, machinery and equipment directly serving the production, packaging, testing of semiconductor circuits or used for training and research purposes will not be banned from import if they meet the prescribed conditions.

Zhong Dat

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