Age Limits for Imported Used Machinery: The 2015 Regulatory Context

Archive — rules announced in 2015. This article describes Circular 23/2015/TT-BKHCN and contemporary discussion about importing used machinery and production lines. Its requirements and exceptions are retained as historical context; they are not a current import clearance checklist.

The ten-year rule under Circular 23/2015

Circular 23/2015 was scheduled to take effect on 1 July 2016, replacing Circular 20/2014 and Notice 2527. The Circular specified an equipment age limit of ten years and conformity with applicable Vietnamese technical regulations or standards, or relevant G7 standards concerning safety, energy efficiency and environmental protection.

Practical concerns for importers

Do Hoai Nam, the department director, discussed the difficulty of arranging overseas inspection against Vietnamese requirements. Importers faced questions about inspection costs, access to suitable assessment organizations and the time needed before shipment.

Project-specific cases

The framework provided special treatment for approved investment projects with an identified used-equipment list. It also allowed case-by-case consideration by the Ministry of Science and Technology for machinery older than ten years where essential to production. These historical provisions should not be assumed to apply unchanged.

Why the policy was discussed

Equipment controls addressed concerns about obsolete, inefficient and polluting technology. A contemporary Chinese list involving 2,255 enterprises across 18 sectors highlighted the risk of outdated equipment moving between markets.

Before importing equipment today

Confirm the rules applicable to the equipment type, manufacturing year, intended use and import date before purchase or shipment. Assemble technical specifications, manufacturer information and the required inspection evidence, and clarify the project’s eligibility with the competent authorities.