Vietnam's new list of banned used electronics, refurbished phones included, takes effect from 2027

Used smartphones, computers and many other digital devices will remain barred from import into Vietnam under an updated list of banned goods that takes effect on Jan. 1, 2027.

The Ministry of Science and Technology issued Circular 63 on Oct. 27, setting out the used digital technology products banned from import together with their Harmonized System (HS) codes.

The list includes familiar devices such as computers, smartphones and equipment that sends or receives sound, images or data over wired or wireless networks.

It also covers devices for work and entertainment, including microphones, speakers, headphones, digital cameras, television cameras, radio and television broadcasting and receiving equipment, radar, navigation devices and radio remote controls.

Monitors and projectors are on the list as well, along with electronic components and supplies such as printed circuits, integrated circuits, electronic tubes, electrical wires and cables, fiber-optic cables, and telephone and telegraph cables.

Printers, copiers, fax machines and their accessories are banned too, with some exceptions. Multicolor digital printers and photocopiers are not on the list.

Used black-and-white digital printers and photocopiers that can print or copy on A0 paper, or at 35 or more A4 pages a minute, are also exempt.

Certain models of used smartphones. Photo by VnExpress/Trong Dat

Refurbished digital technology products are also barred if their HS codes are on the list. The circular defines them as used products that have been repaired or had parts replaced to restore their function, quality and appearance to a condition equivalent to new.

The ban extends to used parts, accessories, component assemblies and electronic components of the listed products.

The new list keeps many of the device groups on a 2018 list of banned used IT products issued by the former Ministry of Information and Communications, but describes smartphones more explicitly.

The exemption for large-format and high-speed black-and-white printers and copiers, and the bans on refurbished devices and used parts, were already part of the 2018 rules.

Used production lines, machinery and equipment that directly serve semiconductor chip manufacturing, packaging and testing, or are used for training and research, are not banned if they meet set conditions.