GS1 Barcode Registration and Annual Maintenance Fees in Vietnam

Businesses that want to place standard product barcodes on their goods in Vietnam must register with GS1 Vietnam, the national body authorised to issue barcodes. Two types of cost are involved: an initial registration fee and a recurring annual maintenance fee. Understanding both helps companies budget correctly and avoid having their barcodes suspended.

Registration fee

The registration fee is a one-time charge paid when a company first applies for a GS1 company prefix. Under the applicable regulation it is a flat amount that does not depend on the prefix length. The prefix length you choose determines how many product codes you can create: a shorter prefix allows more individual product codes and suits larger catalogues, while a longer prefix suits smaller businesses with fewer products.

Annual maintenance fee

After registration, the business must pay an annual maintenance fee to keep its prefix active. This fee is recurring and depends on the length of the company prefix (its product-code capacity) — a shorter prefix, which allows more products, carries a higher annual fee. It is not tied to the company's revenue. Key points to remember:

• The maintenance fee is charged every year for as long as the barcode is used.
• Non-payment can lead to the prefix being suspended or revoked.
• For a prefix granted late in the year, a proportional first-year amount may apply.

Practical tips

Companies should keep their contact details up to date with GS1 Vietnam so that renewal notices are received on time, and should treat the maintenance fee as a fixed recurring cost. Because fee schedules can be revised by regulation, it is sensible to confirm the current figures with the authority before applying.

Frequently asked questions

Is the registration fee paid only once?

Yes. The registration fee is a one-time charge when you first obtain your GS1 company prefix; only the maintenance fee recurs.

What happens if I stop paying the annual fee?

Your prefix can be suspended or revoked, which means your barcodes may no longer be recognised as valid and registered.

Does the fee depend on how many products I have?

The registration fee is flat, but the annual maintenance fee depends on the prefix length you choose, which reflects how many products you plan to code. It is not based on revenue.

How LTV Law helps

LTV Law assists businesses in registering GS1 barcodes, selecting the right prefix, and managing renewals so barcodes stay valid; to get started, contact our team.

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