Vietnam – Where Cuisine Meets Investment Opportunity
Vietnam has long been celebrated as a food lover’s paradise. Today, it is also becoming a dream destination for foreign investors in the food and beverage (F&B) sector. With rapid economic growth and a thriving tourism industry, the country’s F&B market is wide open for international entrepreneurs eager to introduce their concepts.
But here’s the truth: success doesn’t only depend on great menus or prime locations. In Vietnam, understanding the law is the essential ingredient for sustainable business growth.
Major Advantage from WTO Commitments: 100% Foreign Ownership Allowed
One of the most attractive opportunities for investors is Vietnam’s commitment under WTO regulations on restaurant services (CPC 642). Foreign entrepreneurs can establish 100% foreign-owned enterprises — without restrictions on capital contribution ratios or mandatory joint ventures with local partners.
This offers a competitive edge, giving you full control, flexibility in management, and freedom in shaping your brand’s future.
However, full ownership does not mean simplified procedures. To operate smoothly, foreign-invested restaurants must still comply with the same regulatory framework as local businesses.
Core Legal Requirements Every Investor Must Know
I. Investment and Enterprise Registration
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Investment Registration Certificate (IRC): Required for all new investment projects. Applications are filed with the Department of Planning and Investment or the relevant Management Board of industrial/economic zones.
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Enterprise Registration Certificate (ERC): After obtaining the IRC, register your company with the Department of Planning and Investment. The primary business code for restaurants is 5610 – Restaurant and Mobile Food Service Activities.
II. Certificate of Food Safety Eligibility
This is the cornerstone license for restaurants, protecting both quality and community health.
Key conditions include:
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Facilities: Scientifically designed layout, separate processing areas, water supply and waste treatment systems. Equipment must meet hygiene standards.
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Staff: Owners and direct employees must undergo food safety training and hold valid health certificates.
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Ingredients: Food and raw materials must have clear and traceable origins.
III. Fire Prevention and Fighting (FPFF) Requirements
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Approved fire protection system design.
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Adequate firefighting equipment and accessible emergency exits.
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Employee training in fire safety procedures.
IV. Other Licenses and Regulations (depending on business model)
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Environmental license (based on scale and impact).
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Alcohol/beer business license (if serving beverages).
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Security and order license (for certain operations).
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Work permits (for foreign employees).
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Compliance with tax, labor, social insurance, and local urban regulations.
Why Professional Legal Support Matters
Vietnam’s regulatory system is complex and highly detailed. For foreign investors, navigating the legal landscape can be daunting and time-consuming. A reliable legal partner helps you:
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Ensure full compliance from day one, preventing costly mistakes.
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Save valuable time by streamlining paperwork and government procedures.
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Focus on growth while experts handle legal and administrative challenges.
Abbreviations Explained
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WTO: World Trade Organization
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F&B: Food and Beverage
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CPC: Central Product Classification
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IRC: Investment Registration Certificate
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ERC: Enterprise Registration Certificate
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FPFF: Fire Prevention and Fighting
Turn Your Business Dream into Reality
Vietnam’s doors are wide open for foreign investors in the restaurant sector. Don’t let legal barriers slow your progress — with the right guidance, your venture can thrive.
Partner with V-International for expert legal support and business consulting. Together, we’ll help you build a restaurant that is fully compliant, efficient, and ready for success.
📞 Contact V-International Today
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Whatsapp/Zalo: (+84) 88 872 9339
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Address: 7th Floor, ATS Building, 252 Hoang Quoc Viet Street, Nghia Do Ward, Hanoi, Vietnam