VIETNAM IMPORT PROCEDURE FOR STANDALONE MONITORS
A monitor may look straightforward, but a TV tuner, Wi‑Fi, Android, camera or refurbished condition can change classification and controls. This guide provides an end-to-end pre-ETA review map.
QUICK FACTS TO LOCK BEFORE IMPORT
8528.52.00 for computer monitors directly connectable to ADP machines and without a TV tuner.
MFN 0%; ordinary 5%; VAT may be 8% through 31 Dec 2026 if eligible.
Computer-monitor energy labelling is voluntary; minimum performance still requires review.
TV tuner, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, Android/CPU, camera/mic, specialised use or used/refurbished condition.
SCOPE
This guide covers office, gaming and graphic monitors; LCD/LED/OLED displays; touch monitors; smart monitors; interactive panels and selected specialised displays. Variants may have different HS codes and controls.
- New, sample, warranty, project, EPE/FDI and used/refurbished shipments require separate checks.
- TVs, digital signage, medical/vehicle/marine displays and interactive devices are not automatically ordinary computer monitors.
- Adapters, cameras, wireless modules, stands or attached mini-PCs must be assessed by packaging and function.
PRODUCT CLASSIFICATION AND TECHNICAL IDENTIFICATION
Identify principal function, signal inputs, TV reception, processor/OS, radio protocols, power supply and condition. Invoice wording alone is insufficient.
| Criterion | Evidence | Risk if wrong | Suggested declaration description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Primary function | Catalogue, datasheet, manual | Confusing a computer monitor with a TV, signage screen, medical display or interactive panel | Colour LCD/LED monitor, model…, size…, for displaying data from computers, without television tuner |
| Direct computer connectivity | HDMI, DisplayPort, USB-C/Thunderbolt, DVI, VGA and port diagram | Insufficient basis for HS 8528.52 | State the input standards and use with ADP machines of heading 84.71 |
| Television tuner | Manual, DVB-T2/ATSC/ISDB specification, RF input | A tuner may move the product to television reception apparatus and trigger QCVNs | State “without television reception apparatus” only when supported |
| Operating system and processor | BOM, OS specification, user manual | A smart display may not be a passive monitor | Disclose CPU, RAM, storage and Android/Windows functions |
| Wireless connectivity | Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC or cellular specifications | Radio conformity or another classification may arise | List each protocol and radio module |
| Touch, camera and microphone | Touch controller, camera and microphone specifications | An interactive display may be a multifunction device | Clarify whether touch is ancillary and list integrated camera/mic |
| Power supply and adapter | Input voltage, wattage, adapter model | Mismatch in set description and labelling | State AC-direct or external adapter and adapter specifications |
| Condition | Invoice, serial list, photos, year of manufacture | Used/refurbished ICT goods may be prohibited | State new 100%; handle used/refurbished separately |
HS CODE – TAX – ORIGIN
HS 8528.52.00 is a common reference for a monitor without television reception apparatus, directly connectable to and designed for ADP machines of heading 84.71. The technical file must support these criteria.
| Reference HS | Condition | Misclassification risk | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| 8528.52.00 | Monitor without television reception apparatus, directly connectable to and designed for use with ADP machines of heading 84.71 | Incorrect when a tuner or another principal specialised function is present | Catalogue, manual, ports, no-tuner evidence, model specification |
| 8528.59.10 / 8528.59.20 | Other colour/monochrome monitors not meeting 8528.52 criteria | Higher duty or different policy may apply; “other” is not a safe default | Function, target use, signal method and classification evidence |
| 8528.72.xx | Television reception apparatus with display | A TV declared as a monitor creates HS, tax and conformity risks | Tuner data, remote, channel scan, RF input and QCVN reports |
| 8471/8517 or another heading | Only where the article is principally an ADP machine, terminal, conference device or multifunction network device | The trade name “smart monitor” does not determine classification | CPU/OS/BOM, architecture and principal function |
| Tax | Reference | Condition | Operational note |
|---|---|---|---|
| MFN import duty | 0% reference for HS 8528.52.00 | Correct classification and MFN-eligible origin | Check Decree 26/2023 and amendments on declaration date. |
| Ordinary import duty | 5% reference for HS 8528.52.00 | Where MFN/FTA eligibility is unavailable | Check Decision 15/2023 and origin evidence. |
| Import VAT | Conditional 8% through 31 Dec 2026 | Goods normally taxed at 10% and not excluded by Annex I or II of Decree 174/2025 | Confirm the actual product and rules on declaration date. |
| Special preferential duty | May be 0% under FTAs | Valid origin proof, criterion, validity and transport conditions | Where MFN is already 0%, assess the practical value of the C/O. |
SECTORAL POLICY MATRIX
Controls depend on the tuner, wireless modules, operating system and intended use. Do not apply the passive-monitor conclusion to every model.
| Scenario | Possible policy | Evidence | Timing | Risk note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ordinary computer monitor; no tuner or radio transmitter | HS 8528.52.00 is not separately identified in the current risk list under Circular 36/2026; no ICT procedure should be inferred from the name alone | Catalogue, manual, model and labels/ports | Before booking | This is an inference from the current list; re-check integrated functions. |
| Computer monitors in 2026 | Voluntary energy labelling under Circular 52/2025/TT-BCT | TCVN test data if the company elects to label | Before market placement if used | Do not treat energy-label registration as a mandatory customs document in 2026. |
| Minimum energy performance | Review Decision 14/2023/QD-TTg and TCVN 9508:2012 | Test report or manufacturer efficiency data | Before purchasing/commercial import | Voluntary labelling does not remove low-efficiency elimination requirements. |
| Display with DVB-T2/TV tuner | May fall under television apparatus, HS 8528.72 and applicable QCVN/quality control | Tuner data, RF input, test reports and certificates | Before ETA | Do not declare as a computer monitor where TV reception is available. |
| Smart/interactive display with Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, Android, camera or microphone | Review every module and principal function under Circular 36/2026; multiple measures may apply | Protocol list, RF report, CPU/OS/BOM and manual | Before booking | Passive-monitor conclusions cannot be copied to smart models. |
| Medical, marine, automotive, surveillance or signage display | Other sectoral controls or HS headings may apply | Sector catalogue, intended use, certificates and project contract | Before PO | The words display/monitor are not decisive. |
| Adapter, camera or accessories imported together/separately | Review separate HS and policy where sold or packed independently or changing the set’s character | BOM, packing list, adapter and electrical data | Before Invoice/PL | Keep accessory models consistent. |
| Used/refurbished goods | Review prohibited used ICT list and exceptions under Circular 26/2025/TT-BKHCN | Year, serial, condition, import purpose and exception dossier | Before purchase | Do not follow the new-goods process; Decree 292/2026 takes effect on 5 Sep 2026. |
LEGAL DOCUMENTS TO REVIEW
| Area | Document | Authority | Role | Review note |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Customs | Customs Law 2014; Decree 08/2015 as amended; Circular 38/2015 as amended | National Assembly/Government/MOF | Declaration, valuation, inspection and clearance | Verify current effect and customs regime. |
| MFN tariff | Decree 26/2023/ND-CP and amendments | Government | Preferential import tariff by HS | Reference: 0% for 8528.52.00. |
| Ordinary tariff | Decision 15/2023/QD-TTg | Prime Minister | Ordinary rate where MFN/FTA is unavailable | Reference: 5% for 8528.52.00. |
| VAT reduction | Resolution 204/2025/QH15; Decree 174/2025/ND-CP | National Assembly/Government | 2% VAT reduction from 1 Jul 2025 to 31 Dec 2026, subject to exclusions | Check Annex I and II. |
| Energy labels | Circular 52/2025/TT-BCT | MOIT | Energy-labelling list and roadmap from 1 Jan 2026 | Computer monitors are voluntary in 2026. |
| Low-efficiency equipment | Decision 14/2023/QD-TTg; TCVN 9508:2012 | Prime Minister/TCVN | Elimination of low-efficiency equipment | Separate from energy labelling. |
| ICT quality list | Circular 36/2026/TT-BKHCN | MOST | Medium/high-risk product list from 1 Jul 2026 | Review tuners and radio modules. |
| Used ICT goods | Circular 26/2025/TT-BKHCN | MOST | Import of prohibited used ICT goods and exceptions | Review used/refurbished separately. |
| Foreign trade management | Decree 69/2018; Decree 292/2026 | Government | Import prohibition/licensing framework and transition | Decree 292 replaces Decree 69 from 5 Sep 2026. |
| Goods labelling | Decree 43/2017; Decree 111/2021 | Government | Original and Vietnamese supplementary labels | Lock product name, model, origin and responsible entity. |
VIEW / DOWNLOAD OFFICIAL SOURCES
Use the official sources below to verify document numbers, effective dates and signed files.
Businesses should verify the rules again on official legal portals or the issuing authority’s website before application.
CUSTOMS DOCUMENT SET
Commercial set
Commercial Invoice; Packing List; B/L or AWB; Sales Contract/PO; origin proof where used; catalogue/datasheet; original-label photos; model/serial list where relevant.
Technical and sectoral set
Manual; port photos; tuner/wireless specifications; BOM/OS details for smart displays; energy-performance data; test reports, certificates/declarations or used-goods dossier where triggered.
| Group | Documents | Used at | Owner | Common error | Pre-ETA check |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Commercial | Invoice, Packing List, B/L or AWB, Contract/PO | Customs, value, quantity and transport | Exporter/Importer/Forwarder | Generic name or model/quantity/Incoterms mismatch | Use one master model list |
| Technical | Catalogue, datasheet, manual, port photos, functional diagram | HS, policy and explanation | Manufacturer/Importer | Marketing brochure lacks tuner/OS/wireless details | Lock the exact revision |
| Energy | TCVN 9508:2012 test data; voluntary label dossier if elected | Minimum performance and voluntary label | Manufacturer/Importer/Lab | Treating voluntary label as mandatory or lacking efficiency data | Obtain report before PO |
| Sectoral if triggered | RF/TV reports, certificate/declaration, licence or registration | Tuner, wireless or specialised functions | Importer/Compliance | Using a similar model’s report or missing a module | Map each model/module to each QCVN |
| Origin | C/O or origin declaration and supporting evidence | FTA preference and origin proof | Exporter/Importer | Wrong form, criterion, invoice reference, description or HS | Pre-check draft |
| Labelling | Original label photo, Vietnamese supplementary label artwork, manual | Domestic circulation | Importer/Brand owner | Missing model, origin or importer; mistranslated specs | Approve artwork before arrival |
| Used/refurbished | Year, serial, condition, purpose and exception dossier | Prohibition/exception review | Importer/Compliance | Condition disclosed after booking | Written confirmation before PO |
DECISION POINTS THAT MAY HOLD THE SHIPMENT
| Decision point | Question | Evidence | Consequence | Recommended action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product identity | Computer monitor, TV, signage or interactive display? | Catalogue, manual, tuner/OS/BOM | Wrong HS and policy | Prepare a one-page technical memo |
| 8528.52 criteria | Directly connectable to and designed for ADP machines of 84.71? | Ports, intended use, datasheet | Reclassification to 8528.59 or elsewhere | Secure manufacturer evidence |
| Tuner/radio | DVB-T2, Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, NFC or cellular present? | Protocol list, RF input and reports | Unprepared QCVN/quality procedures | Review by model, not product family |
| Energy performance | Meets TCVN 9508:2012 minimum level? | Test report/manufacturer data | Market-surveillance risk | Obtain data before contract |
| Tax/VAT | Are HS, origin and 8% VAT supportable on declaration date? | Tariff, C/O, VAT annexes | Assessment, preference loss or amendment | Prepare a tax sheet |
| Document consistency | Do Invoice, PL, B/L, catalogue, label and C/O match? | Master model list | Yellow/Red channel and amendments | Single source of truth |
| Condition | New or used/refurbished? | PO, invoice, serial and photos | Potential prohibited import | No booking before confirmation |
PRACTICAL END-TO-END PROCESS
Pre-ETA review
Collect catalogue/manual; identify monitor/TV/interactive display; lock HS, taxes, VAT, origin, condition and integrated modules.
Technical memo and model list
Prepare a one-page sheet per model covering panel, size, ports, tuner, OS/CPU, wireless, power and intended use.
Energy and sectoral review
Confirm TCVN 9508:2012 performance; decide whether to use voluntary energy labelling; prepare radio/TV/specialised compliance where triggered.
Lock documents and origin
Cross-check Invoice, PL, B/L/AWB, Contract/PO, catalogue, label and C/O against the master model list.
Customs declaration
Use a technically complete description. Green channel does not remove declarant liability; Yellow checks documents; Red checks documents and goods.
Clearance and market placement
Complete Vietnamese labels and any sectoral marks, retain model test data and shipment records, and prepare for post-clearance or market surveillance.
PRE-ETA RISK CHECKLIST
| Risk | Consequence | Prevention | Evidence |
|---|---|---|---|
| Generic “LCD monitor” description | Insufficient HS basis | Standardise declaration description and memo | Catalogue, manual, ports |
| Using old assumption that energy label is mandatory in 2026 | Unnecessary procedure and delay | Apply Circular 52/2025: voluntary for monitors | Circular 52 and market plan |
| Ignoring minimum performance because labelling is voluntary | Low-efficiency compliance risk | Review Decision 14/2023 and TCVN 9508 | Model test data |
| Tuner/Wi-Fi model treated as passive monitor | Missing conformity/quality process and wrong HS | Review every module before ETA | Protocol list, RF/tuner reports |
| Model mismatch across documents | Amendment, delay and preference loss | Master model list and pre-check | Full document set |
| Refurbished goods shipped as “new” | Potential prohibited used ICT import | Condition warranty and serial/year check | PO, photos and serial list |
| Applying 8% VAT without exclusion check | Tax assessment risk | Review Decree 174/2025 on declaration date | HS, product description and annexes |
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Does an ordinary standalone monitor require an import licence?
A new ordinary computer monitor without a tuner or radio function generally does not trigger a standalone import licence merely because it is a monitor. The exact model must still be checked; smart functions, specialised use or used condition can change the result.
What HS code is commonly used?
HS 8528.52.00 is commonly referenced where the monitor has no television reception apparatus and is directly connectable to and designed for ADP machines of heading 84.71. Final classification depends on the technical file.
Is energy labelling mandatory for computer monitors in 2026?
No. Circular 52/2025/TT-BCT places computer monitors under voluntary energy labelling in 2026. Minimum energy performance under Decision 14/2023 and TCVN 9508:2012 remains a separate review point.
Can a Wi-Fi/Android smart monitor use the ordinary monitor procedure?
Do not assume so. Review CPU/OS, Wi-Fi/Bluetooth, camera, microphone and principal function under Circular 36/2026.
Is a monitor with a TV tuner classified the same way?
Not necessarily. Television reception may move the product to 8528.72 and trigger QCVN and quality-control requirements.
Is import VAT 8% or 10% in 2026?
The base rate is 10%; eligible goods not excluded by Decree 174/2025 may receive the temporary 8% rate through 31 Dec 2026. Confirm on the declaration date.
Is a C/O useful where MFN duty is already 0%?
It may not reduce import duty further, but may still support origin, contract, project or trade-compliance requirements. Assess by shipment.
Can used/refurbished monitors be imported for sale?
They cannot be processed as new goods. Check the prohibited used ICT list and exceptions under Circular 26/2025 before purchase.
When is the Vietnamese supplementary label applied?
Complete the Vietnamese supplementary label before domestic circulation, unless another rule applies. It must match the model, origin, specifications and responsible importer.
SOLUTIONS FROM TGIMEX
This guide maps HS, tax, energy, documents and policy triggers for standalone monitors. Each live shipment must still be concluded from the actual model, origin, condition and intended use.
Monitor/TV/interactive classification; HS, VAT, C/O, energy, tuner/wireless and used-goods review.
Invoice, Packing List, B/L/AWB, C/O, catalogue, manual, labels, test data and master model list.
Agent network in 60+ countries; sea, air, road/rail coordination, pre-alert, ETA, customs and domestic delivery.
Green/Yellow/Red channel handling, HS/value/origin explanation, Vietnamese labels and shipment records.
For smart displays, tuner-equipped models, used goods or multi-model shipments, do not wait until arrival to begin review.
Operational reference only. This is not an official legal translation or a binding tariff/classification ruling. Application depends on the actual dossier and import date.
Tiếng Việt
中文 (中国)
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