Does retailing of alcohol require a business license in Vietnam?
Does retail alcohol require a business license? My name is Thanh. After being introduced by an acquaintance, I wanted to start a wine business. I have been in business for 2 months now. Do I need to apply for a license? I have not registered but I have been doing business so far, will I be fined for doing this?
Does retailing of alcohol require a business license in Vietnam?
Pursuant to Article 13 of Decree 105/2017/ND-CP stipulating the requirements for retailing of alcohol:
- The enterprise, cooperative, cooperative joint venture or household business retailing alcohol (alcohol retailer) shall be established according to regulations of law.
- The alcohol retailer shall be entitled to run a fixed store with a clear address.
- A written reference or an agreement in principle shall be made by the alcohol producer, distributor or wholesaler.
According to the current regulations, although the condition does not mention the business of alcohol must have a license, but alcohol is a special commodity so you still need to apply for a business license for alcohol.
Applications for licenses for alcohol retailing
According to Article 23 of Decree 105/2017/ND-CP stipulating the applications for licenses for alcohol retailing:
A set of application for the license for alcohol retailing (1 set) shall include:
- A completed application form provided in the specimen No. 1 attached hereto.
- A copy of the certificate of enterprise/cooperative/cooperative joint venture/household business registration.
- A copy of the lease/borrowing agreement or documents proving legitimate use rights to expected alcohol retail store.
- A written reference or an agreement in principle shall be made by the alcohol producer, distributor or wholesaler.
- A copy of the note of the declaration of conformity or the written confirmation of the declaration of food safety (if types of alcohol are not regulated by technical regulations) for expected alcoholic drinks for sale.- A written commitment made by the alcohol retailer specified the compliance with all requirements for fire and environmental safety according to regulations of law at the retail store.
Thus, in case you register for alcohol retail business, you must have the documents specified above.
Best regards!
