Condoms provided free of charge must have the phrase “For free distribution only, not for sale” on their packings or labels in Vietnam

Decree 108/2007/ND-CP stipulates that condoms are provided free of charge or sold at subsidized price under programs or projects to target groups of harm reduction intervention measures in the prevention of HIV transmission by outreach workers holding cards or through the network of condom distribution points in Vietnam. Condoms provided free of charge as stipulated in Clause 1 of this Article must have the phrase “For free distribution only, not for sale” on their packings or supplementary labels.

At the same time, the rights and responsibilities of the managers of programs or projects providing condoms are provided free of charge or sold at subsidized price in Vietnam are as follows:

- Managers of programs or projects may:

• Expand the network of free-of-charge condom distribution points, install condom vending machines and arrange condom retail points in entertainment centers, railway or bus stations, hotels, guest houses, restaurants and other accommodation service facilities;

• Promote the free-of-charge provision of condoms and the sale of condoms at subsidized price to users.

- Managers of programs and projects shall:

• Provide guidance on proper condom use;

• Notify the commune-level People’s Committee and police before providing condoms and guidance on condom use.

Owners of entertainment centers, railway and bus stations, hotels, guest houses, inns, restaurants and accommodation service facilities are responsible for collaborating with programs and projects in providing condoms free of charge or installing condom vending machines within their establishments.

The People Committees at all levels and police offices at the same level are responsible for creating favorable conditions for programs and projects to operate and develop the network of condom distribution points in their localities.

More details can be found in Decree 108/2007/ND-CP which comes into force from August 7, 2007.

Ty Na

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