Barcode Country Prefixes: How to Read the Origin Code

Every EAN-13 product barcode begins with a group of digits called the country prefix, assigned by GS1 to national member organisations. Reading these leading digits tells you which GS1 organisation issued the company prefix. This is a common way people try to identify a product's origin, though it must be interpreted carefully.

What the prefix actually shows

The prefix identifies the GS1 member organisation that allocated the company prefix, not necessarily the country of manufacture. A company registered with GS1 Vietnam will have barcodes starting with the Vietnamese prefix even if some goods are made elsewhere. The prefix therefore points to where the barcode was registered, not always where the item was produced.

Examples of prefixes

GS1 assigns prefix ranges to each member organisation. A few widely recognised examples include:

• 893 for Vietnam.
• 690 to 699 for China.
• 880 for South Korea.
• 885 for Thailand.
• 49 for Japan.
• 00 to 13 for the United States and Canada.

Using the prefix wisely

The prefix is useful for a quick check but should not be treated as proof of manufacturing origin or authenticity on its own. To confirm details, scan the barcode and verify the registered company information through a recognised GS1 lookup service.

Frequently asked questions

Does the prefix tell me where a product was made?

Not necessarily. It shows which GS1 organisation issued the company prefix, which may differ from the manufacturing location.

Which prefix belongs to Vietnam?

Vietnam's country prefix is 893, assigned to GS1 Vietnam.

Are the same prefixes used worldwide?

Yes. GS1 prefixes are coordinated globally so that each range maps to a specific member organisation.

How LTV Law helps

LTV Law helps Vietnamese businesses register GS1 barcodes under the 893 prefix and advises on correct product coding; to learn more, contact our team.

This article is for general information only and does not constitute legal advice.