The global trend of shifting supply chains to Vietnam has gained significant momentum in recent years. Amid rising geopolitical tensions, pandemic disruptions, and the urgent need to diversify manufacturing bases, Vietnam has emerged as a top destination for foreign direct investment. With its competitive labor costs, strategic location, and participation in multiple free trade agreements like CPTPP and EVFTA, Vietnam offers enormous opportunities for global manufacturers.
However, alongside these opportunities comes a complex landscape of regulatory compliance in Vietnam, posing significant challenges for foreign investors. Navigating local laws, obtaining product certifications, and meeting import-export requirements are critical to ensuring smooth market entry and supply chain operations.
Amid this environment, ExtendMax Vietnam Company Limited, a leading regulatory compliance consulting firm, has solidified its position as a trusted partner for multinational corporations entering Vietnam. Recognized internationally with the Finance Derivative Award for Best Compliance Consulting Firm Vietnam 2025, Gold Stevie Award and Most People’s Choice Stevie Award 2025, ExtendMax is well-equipped to guide businesses through the legal intricacies of Vietnam’s market.
Opportunities: Why Vietnam is the New Supply Chain Hub
Vietnam’s appeal as a supply chain hub lies in several key advantages:
- Competitive labor force: A young, skilled workforce at competitive wage levels attracts manufacturers seeking cost-effective alternatives to China.
- Strategic trade agreements: Vietnam’s participation in EVFTA, CPTPP, and RCEP grants businesses access to major global markets with reduced tariffs.
- FDI-friendly policies: The Vietnamese government continues to enhance its investment environment with tax incentives and infrastructure improvements across industrial zones.
Major corporations like Samsung, Foxconn, and LEGO have already made significant investments, reinforcing Vietnam’s role as a manufacturing powerhouse in Southeast Asia.
Challenges: The Complexities of Legal Compliance in Vietnam
Despite these advantages, foreign investors face significant legal compliance hurdles when shifting supply chains to Vietnam:
- Product conformity certification: ICT equipment, wireless devices, and electronic products must comply with Vietnam’s technical standards (QCVNs), requiring certification before importation.
- Import licensing for sensitive products: Items such as civil cryptography devices and network security equipment require specialized import licenses from government authorities.
- Customs procedures and labeling: Compliance with energy labeling, environmental standards, and customs declarations adds further complexity.
Failing to meet these requirements can result in delayed shipments, increased costs, or even product rejections at customs. For foreign businesses unfamiliar with Vietnam’s regulatory landscape, these challenges can significantly disrupt supply chains.
ExtendMax: Your Trusted Compliance Partner in Vietnam
This is where ExtendMax plays a crucial role. With over a decade of experience in regulatory compliance consulting, ExtendMax offers end-to-end solutions that enable smooth market entry and uninterrupted supply chain operations:
- Product conformity certification: Consulting and facilitating testing, certification, and approvals for ICT products, electronics, and energy labeling.
- Civil cryptography licensing: Navigating the complex process of obtaining import licenses for cryptography-enabled devices and network security products.
- Importer of Record service: Acting as the legal importer on behalf of clients, ExtendMax allows foreign companies to import products without establishing a local entity, ensuring regulatory compliance and seamless customs clearance.
ExtendMax’s international recognition, including the Finance Derivative Award 2025 and The Stevie Awards, underscores its leadership in helping global companies navigate Vietnam’s complex regulatory environment.
Case Study: Supporting LEGO’s Largest Factory in Vietnam
A standout example is ExtendMax’s collaboration with LEGO, which invested $1.3 billion in its largest manufacturing facility globally, located in Vietnam. Facing stringent regulatory requirements for importing ICT and cryptography-enabled equipment, LEGO partnered with ExtendMax to manage all compliance procedures, from product classification to import licensing and customs clearance. This partnership ensured timely project delivery and compliance, contributing to the success of this landmark investment.
Conclusion: Turning Compliance Challenges into Opportunities
As the shift in supply chains to Vietnam continues, the legal compliance challenges facing foreign investors cannot be overlooked. However, with the right partner, these challenges can be transformed into opportunities for smooth market access and operational efficiency.
ExtendMax stands ready to support global businesses in navigating Vietnam’s regulatory landscape. With proven expertise, transparent processes, and a customer-centric approach, ExtendMax helps companies minimize risks, ensure compliance, and unlock the full potential of their investment in Vietnam.
Contact ExtendMax today to simplify your regulatory compliance journey in Vietnam and secure your place in the region’s thriving supply chain ecosystem.
EXTENDMAX VIETNAM COMPANY LIMITED
Tel: +84 24 6666 3088
Email: consultant@extendmax.vn
Website: https://extendmax.vn
Reg. Add:P903, 9F, Tower A, Sky City Tower Complex, 88 Lang Ha street, Lang Ha ward, Dong Da district, Hanoi city, Vietnam
HO: ExtendMax Villa, C01-L18 An Vuong, Duong Noi ward, Ha Dong, Hanoi, Vietnam
