Vietnam: Vietnam Revises Administrative Penalties for Veterinary Violations Decree 204

On June 11, 2026, Vietnam issued Decree No. 204/2026/ND-CP on administrative penalties in the veterinary sector, effective August 1, 2026. The Decree replaces the previous administrative penalty regime and strengthens and clarifies enforcement across animal disease control, quarantine, slaughter and processing, veterinary hygiene, veterinary medicines, and veterinary practices. It also introduces new provisions concerning products whose packaging identifies a destination other than Vietnam, prohibits the importation of expired animal products, and expands the range of corrective measures available for non-compliance. This report provides an unofficial English translation of the Decree, highlights selected provisions concerning imported animals and animal products and examines their implications for exporters, with particular attention to Vietnam-specific pre-shipment compliance controls.