After a quarter-century of development, Vietnam’s dietary supplement industry is facing an urgent need for systemic reform to regain consumer trust. Statistical data reveals significant growth in this sector: from just a few establishments in 2000, the market now hosts over 2,800 businesses with nearly 12,000 active products, split almost evenly between domestic and imported goods.
In response to recent issues regarding counterfeit goods and fraudulent testing results, health experts and industry representatives have proposed a comprehensive management roadmap. The core of this strategy involves tightening oversight of third-party testing laboratories, enforcing mandatory Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) for all facilities, and encouraging the adoption of international standards to facilitate exports.
Regarding public communication, the new direction focuses on educating the community about proper usage, dosage, and product differentiation. Simultaneously, authorities plan to intensify post-market surveillance throughout 2026. Inspections will target the entire supply chain—from registration and manufacturing to advertising—with a specific focus on supplements for chronic conditions that are prone to illegal ingredient adulteration. Stricter penalties, including potential criminal prosecution, have been recommended to eliminate unethical business practices from the market.