Vietnam is one of the world’s largest importers of maize, primarily for poultry feed, starch production, and food processing. Pakistan, with its high-quality yellow and white maize, has become a key supplier due to competitive pricing and reliable shipments.
This guide covers:
✔ Vietnam’s maize import regulations
✔ Step-by-step import process
✔ Key suppliers and pricing
✔ Common challenges and solutions
1. Vietnam’s Maize Import Requirements
A. Approved Suppliers
Vietnam’s Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) maintains a list of eligible exporters.
Haneen International is a PSQCA-certified supplier approved for Vietnamese imports.
B. Quality Standards
| Parameter | Requirement |
|---|---|
| Aflatoxin | ≤10 ppb (stricter than Codex 20 ppb limit) |
| Moisture | ≤14% |
| Foreign Matter | ≤1% |
| Broken Kernels | ≤5% |
C. Required Documents
Phytosanitary Certificate (Issued by Pakistan’s Department of Plant Protection)
Certificate of Origin (Form D for ASEAN-Pakistan FTA benefits)
SGS/BV Quality Report (Mandatory for aflatoxin & moisture)
Commercial Invoice & Packing List
Bill of Lading
2. Step-by-Step Import Process
Step 1: Find a Reliable Pakistani Supplier
Verify credentials: Check for PSQCA, ISO 22000, and SGS certifications.
Request samples: Test for aflatoxin, protein, and moisture in Vietnamese labs.
Key suppliers: Haneen International, [Competitor 1], [Competitor 2].
Step 2: Negotiate Terms
Price: FOB Karachi rates (2024 avg: $230–250/MT for yellow maize).
Payment: 30% advance, 70% against documents (LC safest for new buyers).
Incoterms: CIF Cat Lai Port (Ho Chi Minh) for easier logistics.
Step 3: Arrange Shipping & Inspection
Container Options:
20’ Dry Container → 24–26 MT
40’ High Cube → 26–28 MT
Pre-shipment Inspection: SGS supervises loading at Karachi Port.
Step 4: Clear Vietnamese Customs
Customs Duties:
ASEAN-Pakistan FTA: 5% duty (vs. 15% non-FTA rate).
VAT: 8% on CIF value.
Clearance Time: 3–5 days if documents are complete.
Step 5: Transport to Warehouse
Major Ports: Cat Lai (HCMC), Hai Phong, Da Nang.
Domestic Logistics: Trucking costs ~$30–50/MT to feed mills in Dong Nai/Binh Duong.
3. Challenges & Solutions
| Challenge | Solution |
|---|---|
| Aflatoxin rejection | Source from Punjab (lower aflatoxin risk) |
| Slow customs clearance | Hire a Vietnamese customs broker |
| Price fluctuations | Lock in prices with forward contracts |
| Moisture damage | Ensure proper container ventilation |
4. Why Import from Pakistan?
✔ Cost Savings: 10–15% cheaper than Brazilian/S. African maize.
✔ Faster Shipping: 12–18 days to HCMC vs. 30+ days from South America.
✔ Dual Harvest Seasons: Year-round supply (Spring & Autumn crops)
Conclusion
Importing Pakistani maize to Vietnam requires careful supplier selection, proper documentation, and logistics planning. Partnering with a certified exporter like Haneen International ensures smooth compliance with Vietnam’s strict quality standards.