Key Features and Import-Export Procedures of PET Plastic Resin

Importing and Exporting PET Resin
What Is PET Resin?
Polyethylene terephthalate (PET) is a widely-used thermoplastic resin from the polyester family. Known for its numerous industrial applications, PET is essential in producing synthetic fibers, food and beverage containers, liquids, and packaging materials. With exceptional heat and mechanical resistance, PET has become the top choice for various manufacturing sectors.
Outstanding Properties of PET Resin
High Mechanical Strength: PET exhibits excellent tear and impact resistance, along with superior hardness, making PET products durable and stable.
Food-Safe and Transparent: PET is safe for contact with food and is transparent, allowing for clear visibility of the product inside.
Effective Gas Barrier: Compared to other plastics, PET has superior oxygen (O2) and carbon dioxide (CO2) barrier properties, preserving the quality of products inside.
High Thermal Stability: PET maintains its chemical structure and barrier properties even when exposed to temperatures as high as 200ºC or as low as –90ºC, ensuring consistent performance.
Virgin vs. Recycled PET Resin: Key Differences
| Type of PET Resin | Origin | Characteristics | Common Applications |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virgin Resin | Derived from petroleum distillation | Pure, durable, transparent, high plasticity | Food & beverage packaging, medical products, premium consumer goods |
| Recycled Resin | Reprocessed from used plastics | Less durable, may contain impurities | Industrial packaging, non-food contact products |
Current Status of PET Resin Imports in Vietnam

PET Resin Import Process into Vietnam
According to the Vietnam Plastics Association (VPA), demand for plastic raw materials is rising sharply, while domestic supply remains limited. Vietnam needs approximately 1.2 million tons annually, yet local production only meets 100,000 – 150,000 tons.
Key statistics:
-
2021: Total plastic raw material import value reached USD 11.68 billion, up 39.16% compared to 2020.
-
Top import markets: South Korea, China, ASEAN, Taiwan, Saudi Arabia (accounting for ~80%).
PET Resin Import Process into Vietnam
PET Resin HS Codes:
- 392330: Plastic articles for packing or transporting goods
- 39233020: Reinforceable plastic bottles, jars, and containers
- 390760: Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET), virgin or recycled
- 390769: Other modified or blended PET types
Import Duties
- WTO MFN Tariff: 15%
- VAT: 10%
- Import duty exemption available with valid Certificate of Origin (C/O) such as Form E, Form D, etc.
Required Import Documents
- Sale Contract
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading
- Certificate of Origin (if available)
- Electronic Customs Declaration
>> Read More: Bill of Lading (B/L) and Sea Waybill: Key Documents in Maritime Shipping
Important Notes When Importing PET Resin
Labels on packaging must clearly show:
- Product name
- Manufacturer/exporter name and address
- Importer name and address
- Country of origin
- Product description
Choose a logistics provider with clean warehouses and standard-compliant containers to maintain raw material quality.
Legal Basis for PET Resin Imports
- Decree 187/2013/ND-CP – International Trade
- Decree 69/2018/ND-CP – Guidelines on Foreign Trade Management Law
- Circulars 38/2015/TT-BTC & 39/2018/TT-BTC – Customs Procedures
- Official Dispatch 8910/BT-TCHQ – Product Classification
Note: Both virgin and recycled PET resin are not on the prohibited import list. Businesses can carry out customs clearance as with standard goods.
PET Resin Export Process from Vietnam

PET Resin Export Process from Vietnam
Vietnam is not only a major importer but also increasing PET resin exports, thanks to competitive production costs and improved product quality.
Vietnam’s PET Resin Export Advantages
- Strategic location: Close to key markets such as China, South Korea, India.
- Free Trade Agreements (FTAs): EVFTA, CPTPP, RCEP help reduce tariffs and expand market access.
- Technology investment: New factories in Vietnam use advanced production lines that meet global standards.
Potential Export Markets
- India, Pakistan: High demand for PET in packaging and textile sectors.
- Europe: Prefers virgin PET with eco-friendly and food-grade standards.
- Southeast Asia: Easy market access and fast trade cycles.
Export Duties
- Export duty: 0% (most PET resin is duty-free)
- VAT: Not applicable
- Eligible for preferential import tariffs at destination countries with proper C/O (CPTPP, RCEP, AJ forms, etc.)
>> Read More: What Is the CPTPP Agreement?
Required Export Documents
- Sale Contract
- Commercial Invoice
- Packing List
- Bill of Lading
- Certificate of Origin (if applicable)
- Electronic Customs Declaration
- Quality inspection certificates (if required by the destination country)
>> Read More: What Is a Packing List? Its Importance in Import and Export
Important Notes When Exporting PET Resin
- Packaging must be sealed, clean, and free from contaminants.
- Labels should display:
- Product name
- Net weight
- Batch number & manufacturing date
- Manufacturer’s name and address
- Country of origin
- Product name
- Work with logistics providers experienced in plastic exports.
- Carefully check destination country import regulations to avoid rejections or returns.
Legal Basis for PET Resin Exports
- Decree 187/2013/ND-CP – International Trade
- Decree 69/2018/ND-CP – Guidelines on Foreign Trade Management Law
- Circulars 38/2015/TT-BTC & 39/2018/TT-BTC – Customs Procedures
- Export product classification decisions issued by Vietnam Customs Authority
PET resin, both virgin and recycled, is not restricted for export. Businesses may proceed with standard customs procedures.
Domestic Transportation of PET Resin in Vietnam

Domestic Transportation of PET Resin in Vietnam
King Freight Logistics Vietnam (KFLV) provides safe – fast – compliant PET resin transportation services:
- Specialized trucks and containers for plastics
- Flexible pick-up and delivery from port to factories
- Clean and secured warehouses in Ho Chi Minh City, Hanoi, Da Nang, and key industrial zones
Sea Freight for PET Resin with KFLV
King Freight Logistics Vietnam (KFLV) supports customers with:
- PET resin container booking and international shipping
- Fast customs clearance for exports
- Consulting on required documents for each destination market
- 24/7 shipment tracking to the final port of discharge
Contact now via hotline +84 (0) 938 188 796 Or email cs1@hcm.kfkingfreight.com for a fast quote and best offer!
Written bykflv.vn
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