Prohibited goods, restricted goods and goods requiring a license when sent to the Philippines

Not every item that can be bought and sold in Vietnam can be brought into the Philippines in the same way. Before packing, it is necessary to distinguish prohibited goods from conditional goods or goods under specialized management.

Three ways of understanding need to be clearly separated

Philippine Customs distinguishes prohibited, restricted and regulated goods. Regulated goods may require licensing or approval from the appropriate regulatory authority; Prohibited goods are not considered to require additional fees. Source: Bureau of Customs, Prohibited/Restricted Importations.

Import conditions and transportation conditions are two layers of inspection. An item with import records may not be suitable for all shipping methods; On the contrary, correct packaging does not by itself replace an import license.

Why is just the product name not enough?

“Cosmetics”, “electronics” or “food” are all very broad groups. To check, you should have the label, ingredients or materials, use, model, quantity, new/old condition and purpose of sending. If there are batteries, liquids or storage requirements, it should be stated clearly from the beginning.

Don't change an item's name to make it simpler or remove an item from the list because the quantity is small. The list sent to consultants should reflect all goods intended to be placed in the package.

Where to look up?

The BOC page lists regulatory agencies such as FDA, BPI, BAI and BPS depending on the product group. You can also start from Philippine National Trade Repository to find information by product. The search results must match the exact item, not just one word in the name.

If you are not sure, send the information to the import handling contact or shipping unit to check. Ask clearly what documents are needed, who prepares them, and when they need to be completed. This article does not provide a “get it all” list for Gia Phú.

Proper preparation sequence

1. Make a list of each item and a photo of the label.
2. Mark items with unique characteristics or unknown regulations.
3. Check import conditions and line reception capacity.
4. Prepare records according to applicable feedback for the correct shipment.
5. Only pack and hand over according to the agreed plan.

Inferences should be avoided

• “Someone has sent it before” so the current batch has definitely been received.
• “Send less” so no need to check.
• "Goes by sea" so all limitations are gone.
• “Additional Fee” may replace any license.

Read next your actual item: cosmetics, food or device with battery. These articles help prepare information for inspection, not to automatically confirm receipt of goods.