Vietnam has introduced updated regulations on the certification of fragrant rice exported to the European Union (EU) and the United Kingdom (UK), marking a new phase of quality control and supply chain transparency for agricultural exports.

The updated framework is consolidated under Document No. 57/VBHN-BNNMT and is based on Decree No. 103/2020/ND-CP, together with amendments under Decree No. 11/2022/ND-CP and Decree No. 33/2026/ND-CP.

The regulation applies to organizations and individuals involved in the certification process for fragrant rice export under the EVFTA and UKVFTA frameworks.

As international markets continue to raise standards for food quality, sustainability, and traceability, these updated requirements are expected to strengthen the competitiveness of Vietnamese rice in premium markets.

What is new in the fragrant rice export regulation?

Under the new regulation, certification requirements for fragrant rice export place greater emphasis on production quality and origin control rather than product classification alone. 

Fragrant rice fields must achieve a minimum seed purity level of 95% and undergo inspection once within 20 days before harvest by recognized crop variety testing organizations. 

Each inspected field will be assigned an identification code, while exported products must provide clear cultivation and production information to ensure traceability and compliance. These updates reflect a shift toward stricter field-level verification and greater supply chain transparency. 

Certification requirements for fragrant rice export

Businesses applying for certification for fragrant rice export must prepare a complete set of documents before export procedures begin, including the certification application form, completed certification template, inspection report for fragrant rice fields, and transfer agreement for inspection records, where applicable. Applications may be submitted directly, via postal services, or through electronic channels. 

For online submissions, all documents must be completed digitally and signed in accordance with current regulations. Once valid documentation is received, the competent authority will conduct assessment procedures and issue certification within the specified timeframe. 

Why traceability is key to agricultural exports ?

For fragrant rice export, both the EU and UK increasingly require exporters to demonstrate product origin, production conditions, and compliance with quality standards.

This means exporters can no longer focus solely on processing and trading activities. Greater investment in raw material management, production data systems, and certification readiness is becoming necessary.

Building transparent and verifiable supply chains is expected to become a long-term competitive advantage.

Although the updated regulation may increase compliance requirements in the short term, it also creates opportunities to improve the overall value chain of Vietnam’s rice industry.

Higher standards in certification and traceability can support stronger market positioning and expand access to high-value destinations.

For exporters, early adaptation will be essential not only to maintain tariff advantages but also to strengthen competitiveness in global agricultural trade.

Source: Labor Newspaper

2/6/2026