Website Notification and Registration with the Ministry of Industry and Trade

Notifying and registering a website with the Ministry of Industry and Trade is a mandatory process for e-commerce websites in Vietnam to ensure transparency, protect consumer rights, and comply with legal regulations.

This article provides a detailed guide on the procedures for notifying and registering a website with the Ministry of Industry and Trade, helping businesses comply with legal regulations and enhance their e-commerce credibility.

Why Notify and Register a Website?

1. Legal Compliance

According to Decree 52/2013/ND-CP, Decree 185/2013/ND-CP, and Circular 47/2014/TT-BCT, all e-commerce websites must complete notification or registration procedures. Failure to comply may result in administrative penalties.

2. Enhancing Business Credibility

Once registered, the website receives an official verification logo from the Ministry of Industry and Trade, which:

✔️ Builds customer trust and prevents fraudulent websites.

✔️ Confirms the website’s legal operation and valid business license.

3. Strengthening Brand Recognition

A registered website signifies full compliance with regulations, ensuring lawful product distribution and intellectual property protection.

Which Websites Need Notification or Registration?

1. Websites Requiring Notification

🔹 E-commerce websites for selling goods/services – Personal or business websites introducing products/services, with or without online ordering functions.

🔹 Mobile applications for selling goods – E-commerce apps supporting sales or service provision.

📌 Note: Even websites without online payment features must still notify the Ministry if they introduce products/services.

2. Websites Requiring Registration

🔹 E-commerce service providers, including:

• Online marketplaces (e.g., Chợ Tốt, Vatgia).
• Online promotion websites (offering discounts and promotions).
• Online auction websites (enabling individuals/organizations to conduct auctions).

🔹 Mobile applications providing e-commerce services – Platforms allowing third parties to buy, sell, auction, or advertise online.

Website Notification and Registration Procedures

1. Eligible Entities

✔️ Notification – For businesses/individuals selling goods/services.

✔️ Registration – For e-commerce service providers.

2. Processing Time

⏳ Review time: Approximately 1-3 weeks (may take longer if additional documents are required).

3. Cost

💰 Completely free.

4. Submission Methods

🌐 Online submission: http://online.gov.vn

📍 Paper submission: Department of E-commerce and IT – Ministry of Industry and Trade, 25 Ngô Quyền, Hoàn Kiếm, Hanoi.

Required Documents for Notification/Registration

1. Business Documents

• Business registration certificate (for companies).
• Business household registration certificate (for individuals).
• Establishment decision (for organizations).

2. Mandatory Policy Pages

🔹 Shopping guidelines

🔹 Shipping policy

🔹 Payment policy

🔹 Warranty and return policy

🔹 Customer information privacy policy

📌 These policies must be clearly displayed on the website.

3. Website Information

The website must display:

✔️ Tax identification number

✔️ Contact address

✔️ Phone number

📌 Best practice: Display this information in the website footer.

Steps to Notify/Register a Website

1. Create an Account

1️⃣ Visit http://online.gov.vn → Select “Register”.

2️⃣ Fill in details:

• Company name, tax ID, business sector
• Account information
• Legal representative information

  3️⃣ Click “Submit registration”.

2. Verify the Account

✔️ Receive a confirmation email within 3 business days from the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

✔️ If no response is received, call 04.222205512 for assistance.

3. Declare Website Type

• “Notify Website” → For selling goods/services.
• “Register Website” → For e-commerce service providers.

✔️ Provide required details:

• Website name
• Owner information
• Products/services offered
• Payment and shipping policies

✔️ Upload business license and ID card (for individuals).

4. Review and Approval

📌 Processing time: Approximately 3 business days.

📌 If additional documents are required, follow the Ministry’s instructions for resubmission.

5. Receive and Display Verification Logo

✔️ Once approved, the Ministry issues a verification logo.

✔️ Add the logo to the website to confirm successful notification/registration.

Benefits of Completing Website Registration

✔️ Legalizes business operations and prevents legal risks.

✔️ Enhances credibility with customers and partners.

✔️ Provides access to policy updates from the Ministry.

✔️ Protects consumer rights and ensures transaction transparency.

✔️ Opens opportunities for e-commerce development programs.

✔️ Expands business partnerships.

✔️ Improves online customer reach and boosts sales.

Conclusion

Notifying and registering a website with the Ministry of Industry and Trade is not only a legal obligation but also a strategic step to strengthen brand credibility in e-commerce. Ensure your website is properly registered to build customer trust and optimize your online business.