Guide to Exporting Rice from Vietnam: Procedures and Detailed Documentation

Introduction
Rice export is one of Vietnam’s key export industries, significantly contributing to the national economy. To successfully export rice, businesses must comply with legal procedures and prepare the required documentation. This article provides a detailed step-by-step guide, from contract registration to completing customs procedures.

1. Rice Export Contract Registration

Registering the export contract is the first step for businesses to gain permission to export. Required documents include:

• A written request for rice export contract registration.
• The rice export contract (original or valid copy).
• Report on available rice stocks, specifying:
  • Total rice stocks in warehouses.
  • Specific warehouse addresses.
  • Quantity of rice at each warehouse.
• A valid copy of the certificate of eligibility for rice export business (first submission).
• Submission deadline: Within 3 working days from the contract signing date. In justified cases, this can be extended to a maximum of 10 working days.

Submission location: The Vietnam Food Association (VFA) for confirmation.

2. Export Tax and VAT

Vietnam offers favorable tax rates for rice export:

• Export tax: 0%.
• Value Added Tax (VAT): 0%.
  These exemptions enhance competitiveness in the global market for Vietnamese businesses.

3. Customs Procedures for Rice Export

To complete export procedures, businesses must follow these steps:

Step 1: Submit Customs Documents
Complete documents include:

• Commercial Invoice.
• Packing List.
• Bill of Lading.
• Certificate of eligibility for rice export or entrusted contract.
• Export contract registration confirmed by VFA.
• Certificate of Origin (C/O) if required by the export market.

Step 2: Customs Inspection
Customs authorities will review the documents and inspect the actual goods to ensure compliance with regulations.

Step 3: Pay Customs Fees
Enterprises must pay customs fees to complete the process and receive the customs declaration form.

4. Important Notes for Rice Export

Below are the HS codes for various rice products:

• 100610: Paddy rice.
  • 10061010: Seeds for sowing.
  • 10061090: Other paddy rice.
• 100620: Brown rice.
  • 10062010: Thai Hom Mali (premium Thai rice).
  • 10062090: Other brown rice.
• 100630: Milled or semi-milled rice.
  • 10063030: Glutinous rice.
  • 10063040: Thai Hom Mali.
  • 10063091: Parboiled rice.
  • 10063099: Other milled rice.
• 100640: Broken rice.
  • 10064010: For animal feed.
  • 10064090: Other broken rice.

Accurate HS code identification is crucial for tax declaration and customs procedures.

5. Key Considerations for Rice Export

• Correct HS code selection: Ensures precise tax and customs declarations.
• Quality assurance: Only export batches that meet food safety standards.
• Reliable transportation partners: Ensures timely delivery and minimizes risks.

6. Benefits of Rice Export

Vietnam is recognized as one of the world’s largest rice exporters. Rice export not only boosts business profits but also elevates Vietnam’s position in the global agricultural market.

Conclusion

Exporting rice from Vietnam requires thorough preparation in terms of documentation and procedures. Understanding the processes and regulations helps minimize risks and improve business efficiency. We hope this guide serves as a valuable reference for businesses exploring rice export opportunities.

For further assistance, please contact the Vietnam Food Association or industry experts.