Question 1

Why register a GS1 barcode instead of creating one myself?

Accepted Answer

A GS1 barcode is the only international standard accepted by retail systems and e-commerce platforms worldwide. Supermarkets such as Co.opmart and Vinmart require a valid GS1 code to accept goods. Shopee, Lazada, and Tiki also require a standard barcode to create an official product listing. For exports, foreign partners require a GS1 code that can be looked up in the GEPIR system. Self-generated or informally purchased codes will be rejected and may be penalized under Decree 13/2022/ND-CP.

Question 2

How many product codes can be issued from one GS1 Company Prefix?

Accepted Answer

The number of GTINs available from a GCP depends on the prefix length: a 7-digit prefix → 100,000 GTINs; an 8-digit prefix → 10,000 codes; a 9-digit prefix → 1,000 codes. Most small and medium-sized enterprises receive a 9-digit prefix (1,000 GTINs) — enough for decades of use. Contact GS1 Vietnam if you need a shorter prefix for a larger number of SKUs.

Question 3

Does each product SKU need its own barcode?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Every product that differs in name, size, color, flavor, packaging, or packaging unit requires its own distinct GTIN. For example, the same tea in a 30-sachet box versus a 50-sachet box requires 2 different codes; red and blue variants require 2 different codes. This is GS1's "1 item — 1 barcode" principle.

Question 4

Does a barcode expire?

Accepted Answer

The barcode itself (GTIN) has no expiry date. However, GS1 Vietnam membership must be maintained by paying the annual fee (VND 1,000,000/year). If the membership is not renewed within 1 year of expiry, GS1 Vietnam may revoke the GS1 Company Prefix — all GTINs derived from that prefix will become invalid. This is a serious risk if products are already on the market.

Question 5

Can I buy a barcode online?

Accepted Answer

This is neither advisable nor lawful. Websites selling "cheap barcodes" are actually reselling someone else's GTIN — a violation of GS1 rules (each GTIN may be assigned to only one product of the GCP owner). Using an invalid barcode can result in: rejection when supplying supermarkets; listing removal on e-commerce platforms; and penalties under Decree 13/2022/ND-CP (penalties for violations relating to product numbering and barcodes).

Question 6

Do exported products need GS1 registration?

Accepted Answer

Highly recommended. Most foreign importers (especially in the EU, US, Japan, and South Korea) require a valid GS1 code to bring products into their warehouse and retail management systems. Codes issued by GS1 Vietnam (prefix 893) are recorded in the international GEPIR system — foreign partners can look up and verify your product information.

Question 7

After receiving the GCP, do I generate codes myself or apply again for each product?

Accepted Answer

Once a business receives its GS1 Company Prefix, it has full autonomy to generate a GTIN for each product — no further approval from GS1 Vietnam is needed for each item. You need only ensure: (1) the GTIN is unique within your prefix; (2) product information is updated in the GS1 database (GEPIR) so partners can look it up; and (3) barcode printing standards are followed (size, quiet zone).

Question 8

What is the difference between GS1 Vietnam and STAMEQ?

Accepted Answer

STAMEQ (the Directorate for Standards, Metrology and Quality) is the state management agency under the Ministry of Science and Technology responsible for the entire field of standards and product numbering/barcoding. GS1 Vietnam is a member organization of GS1 International, operating under STAMEQ, responsible for issuing and managing the GS1 code system in Vietnam. When registering a barcode, you work directly with GS1 Vietnam.

Fee item	Amount	Note
First-time GS1 Vietnam membership registration fee	VND 1,000,000 + VAT	Paid once upon joining
Annual membership maintenance fee	VND 1,000,000 + VAT	Paid to retain the right to use the GCP
LTV Law service fee	Contact for a quote	All-inclusive, no hidden costs
Total GS1 fees, first year	~VND 2,200,000	Includes VAT (year 2)

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