In the context of global integration, Vietnam’s retail market has become increasingly attractive to foreign investors. However, to legally operate in the retail sector, foreign-invested enterprises are required to obtain a Retail Business License in accordance with Vietnamese law.

With years of experience in legal and investment consultancy, APEX PARTNERS is proud to be a trusted partner, assisting businesses in completing their licensing procedures quickly and lawfully.

What Is a Retail Business License?

A Retail Business License is a specific license required for foreign investors (or enterprises with foreign investment capital) who wish to engage in direct sales of goods to consumers in the Vietnamese market. This is a mandatory requirement, in addition to the Investment Registration Certificate and Enterprise Registration Certificate.

According to Decree No. 09/2018/ND-CP, any foreign investor seeking to establish a retail outlet, a chain of stores, a supermarket, or an e-commerce platform must obtain this license before commencing operations.

Who Needs to Apply for a Retail Business License?

• Enterprises with 100% foreign capital or joint ventures involving foreign investors.
• Companies wishing to open retail outlets (e.g., stores, showrooms, distribution centers) in Vietnam.
• Investors who already have an Investment Registration Certificate, but whose registered business scope does not yet include retail activities.

Note: If the company only engages in wholesale (i.e., selling to other businesses and not directly to end consumers), this license may not be required.

Conditions for Obtaining a Retail Business License

The issuance of a retail business license for foreign-invested enterprises depends on various factors, such as:

• Compliance with WTO commitments and other international trade agreements to which Vietnam is a signatory.
• Alignment with local commercial development plans.
• Financial capacity, business experience, and a clear retail business plan.
• If establishing a second or subsequent retail outlet, an Economic Needs Test (ENT) must be conducted.

What Does the Retail Business License Application Dossier Include?

A standard application dossier typically includes:

• Application form (as prescribed by law).
• Enterprise Registration Certificate and Investment Registration Certificate.
• Financial statements and documents proving financial capacity.
• Retail business plan and explanation.
• Documents proving lawful use of retail premises.

Depending on the business type and sector, licensing authorities may request additional documents.

Retail Business License Application Process

• Prepare and review all application documents.
• Submit the application to the Department of Industry and Trade in the province/city where the business is based.
• Licensing authority will evaluate and request additional documents, if necessary.
• License is issued within 20–30 working days, counted from the date a complete and valid application is received.

APEX PARTNERS – Your Trusted Legal Partner for Retail Business Licensing in Vietnam

With a team of highly experienced lawyers, APEX PARTNERS offers comprehensive legal support to foreign enterprises in matters related to investment and commercial operations in Vietnam. We provide:

• Legal consultation tailored to specific sectors and localities.
• Preparation, review, and completion of application dossiers.
• Representation of clients in working with government authorities.
• Post-licensing support, including opening additional retail outlets, amending license contents, and adjusting investment projects.

Contact APEX PARTNERS Today for Retail Business Licensing Support

Head Office: Vincom Center, 72 Le Thanh Ton Street, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1, Ho Chi Minh City

E-mail: apexpartners.pro@gmail.com

Phone/Zalo: +84 968 629 434