Cocoa Export Procedures From Vietnam

Cocoa is one of Vietnam’s high-potential agricultural commodities with strong demand from Europe, the United States, Japan, South Korea, and the Middle East. To succeed in international trade, exporters must fully understand the cocoa export procedures from Vietnam—from HS CODE classification, customs documentation, to mandatory permits and logistics requirements.

This guide provides businesses with comprehensive insights to achieve faster clearance, minimize risks, and optimize export costs.

Under Vietnam’s Import–Export Tariff Schedule, cocoa is classified under Chapter 18 – Cocoa and Cocoa Preparations.
Common HS CODE examples:
1801.00.00 – Cocoa beans, raw or roasted.
1803.10.00 – Cocoa beans, roasted but not decorticated.
1803.20.00 – Cocoa nibs, crushed or broken.
1804.00.00 – Cocoa butter, whether deodorized or not.
1805.00.00 – Cocoa powder, not containing added sugar.

👉 Accurate HS CODE determination ensures correct tax application and eligibility for tariff preferences under FTAs (EVFTA, CPTPP, RCEP), while avoiding reclassification or customs inspection delays.

A complete set of export documents typically includes:
– Electronic customs declaration (VNACCS/VCIS system).
– Sales Contract.
– Commercial Invoice.
– Packing List.
– Bill of Lading (B/L) or Airway Bill (AWB).
– Certificate of Origin (C/O) – if tariff preferences are applied.
– Specialized certificates depending on market: phytosanitary, testing reports, Free Sale Certificate (FSC)…

👉 Proper and accurate documentation significantly improves the chance of receiving the green channel clearance, saving time and storage costs.
🔗 Learn more about customs declaration services at SAS Logistics

Beyond customs procedures, exporters must comply with quality standards, permits, and logistics practices tailored to each importing country.

– Cocoa must meet international standards such as ISO 2451:2017 or specific buyer requirements.
– Key quality indicators: moisture level, percentage of broken beans, foreign matter, cocoa butter content, pesticide residues.
– Independent testing by accredited labs such as SGS, Intertek is recommended to enhance buyer confidence.

– The Free Sale Certificate (FSC) confirms that cocoa is legally manufactured and distributed in Vietnam.
– Issued by the Ministry of Industry and Trade or Ministry of Health, depending on the product.
– FSC is especially required for exports to Middle East, Africa, and South America.

– A C/O enables exporters to enjoy preferential tariffs under FTAs.
– Common types include:EUR.1 (EVFTA), CPTPP Certificate, RCEP Certificate
– Required documents: customs declaration, invoice, packing list, and production records proving Vietnamese origin.

– Many markets (China, Japan, South Korea) require a Phytosanitary Certificate, even for semi-processed cocoa.
– Issued by the Plant Protection Department – MARD.
– Application includes: inspection request, sales contract, invoice, packing list, and product samples.
– Without this certificate, goods risk being detained or rejected at the importing port.

– Cocoa is typically shipped in dry containers or reefer containers depending on buyer requirements.
– Storage conditions: 18–22°C, humidity below 65%.
– Packaging standard: jute or PP bags lined with PE
– Working with reliable carriers is critical to prevent mold, spoilage, or cargo damage during transit.

The cocoa export procedures from Vietnam require thorough preparation of customs documents, certificates, and compliance with international quality standards. By understanding legal requirements and coordinating with experienced logistics providers, exporters can ensure smooth clearance, reduce operational risks, and build stronger credibility with global buyers.
👉 With years of expertise in agricultural exports, SAS Logistics is ready to support businesses in handling cocoa export shipments efficiently and safely.
📌 Reference: Vietnam Cocoa & Coffee Association (VICOFA)