Vietnam Regulation in Textile Product

What is Circular No. 21/2017/TT-BCT (Circular No. 21)?

Circular No. 21, issued by Vietnam's Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), establishes restrictions on hazardous chemicals in textile products to ensure consumer safety. Specifically, it limits the permissible content of:

• Formaldehyde: A chemical that can cause skin irritation and respiratory issues.
• Azo Dyes: Certain azo dyes that release carcinogenic aromatic amines are restricted.

These regulations apply to textile products intended to be distributed and circulated in the Vietnamese market.

Scope of Application

Circular No. 21 applies to the following:

• Textile Products: Fabrics, garments, socks, stockings, gloves, hats etc.
• Textile Components of Footwear Products: Linings, insoles, or any textile part.
• Textile Components of Bedding Sets: Pillows, mattresses, and similar items.
• Other Textile Items and similar textile-based goods

Key requirements:

• Formaldehyde limits:
  • ≤30 mg/kg for textile products for children under three years old.
  • ≤75 mg/kg for products in direct skin contact.
  • ≤300 mg/kg for products without direct skin contact.
• Aromatic amines derived from azo dyes: The content must not exceed 30 mg/kg for each amine in textile products.

Exemptions

Certain goods are exempt from the requirements of Circular No. 21, including:

• Goods and gifts within duty-free allowances.
• Goods intended for advertising or research purposes.
• Goods temporarily imported for exhibition.
• Goods under transit.
• Goods exchanged by residents of bordering areas within duty-free limits.
• Unbleached or undyed textile products.
• Napkins, tampons, diapers, baby wipes.

Who Must Comply with Circular No. 21?

The regulation applies to businesses involved in the manufacturing, import and distribution of textile products, including:

• Garments and apparel
• Fabrics and home textiles (e.g., curtains, bedding)
• Accessories containing textile components

Bureau Veritas Approach

Bureau Veritas CPS Vietnam provides end-to-end solutions to ensure your textile products comply with Circular No. 21.

• Chemical Testing: Advanced analytical techniques to detect and quantify Formaldehyde and Azo dye levels in textiles.
• Technical Guidance: Assistance with interpreting regulatory requirements and identifying potential risks in your supply chain.
• Documentation Support: Ensure proper preparation of self-declaration of conformity and technical files.
• Proactive Monitoring: Regular updates on changes in regulations and enforcement policies.
• Tailored Solutions: Customized services for different textile products based on material types and end uses.

Key Benefits 

• Regulatory Confidence: Ensure full compliance with Circular No. 21, avoiding costly penalties and recalls.
• Efficiency Gains: Streamline compliance processes with expert testing and certification services.
• Reputation Enhancement: Demonstrate a commitment to consumer safety and sustainability.
• Market Access: Ensuring seamless entry to the Vietnam market.
• Cost Management: Minimize disruptions and risks through precise testing and expert insights.

Why Bureau Veritas?

• Global expertise, Local Leadership: Established in 1828, Bureau Veritas is a global quality assurance service provider with 83,000 employees, 1600 offices and testing laboratories in over 140 countries. Over 20 years of experience supporting Vietnam’s textile industry with tailored compliance services.
• State-of-the-Art Labs: Equipped with cutting-edge technology to deliver precise testing results.
• Dedicated Experts: A team of seasoned professionals specialized in chemical testing and regulatory compliance.
• Comprehensive Coverage: Our services span the entire supply chain, from raw materials to finished goods.
• Client-Centric Approach: We provide customized, efficient solutions to meet your specific needs.
   

Ensure your textile products meet the safety and regulatory standards required under Circular 21/2017/TT-BCT. Contact Bureau Veritas CPS Vietnam today to learn more about our compliance solutions.

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