Importing CNC machines into Vietnam in 2026: duties, procedures and timing

Updated: 2026-09-25

Importing a CNC machine is straightforward if you prepare correctly from the start. A wrong HS code, a missing certificate of origin or a used machine over the age limit can leave your shipment stuck at the port for weeks. This guide covers what a buyer needs to know, updated to September 2026.

1. Confirm the HS code before you sign

CNC lathes fall under heading 8458: numerically controlled horizontal lathes are usually declared under 8458.11 and other NC lathes under 8458.91. Machining centers and CNC milling machines fall under other headings (8457, 8459), so their rates may differ. The HS code decides the duty rate and rules that apply, so send the catalogue and specifications to your customs broker before signing the contract.

2. Import duty

Under the current tariff, numerically controlled (CNC) lathes carry a 0% MFN import duty. Manual lathes may carry higher rates depending on the code. For other machine types, goods originating in a country that has a free trade agreement with Vietnam can get a special preferential rate, often 0%, with a valid certificate of origin (C/O).

• China: Form E under ACFTA
• Japan: C/O under VJEPA or AJCEP
• Korea: C/O under VKFTA or AKFTA
• European Union: proof of origin under EVFTA
• Taiwan: no free trade agreement with Vietnam, so the MFN rate applies; for CNC lathes that rate is already 0%

3. Value added tax (VAT)

From 1 July 2025 to 31 December 2026, most goods normally taxed at 10% VAT are reduced to 8% under Decree 174/2025/NĐ-CP, and lathes are not on the excluded list. Import VAT = (CIF value + import duty) × VAT rate. Companies using the credit method can deduct this VAT. From 2027 the rate may return to 10% if the reduction is not extended.

Example: a CNC lathe from Taiwan with a CIF value of USD 100,000. Import duty is 0% and 8% VAT is USD 8,000. On top of taxes, budget for port handling, customs broker fees, inland trucking, rigging and installation.

4. Customs documents

• Sales contract
• Commercial invoice
• Packing list
• Bill of lading
• Certificate of origin (C/O), to claim a preferential rate
• Machine catalogue and technical documents
• For used machines: an inspection certificate for machine age and condition

Imported machines must carry a label showing the machine name, origin and manufacturer details. Ask the supplier to fit a complete nameplate before shipment.

5. Clearance process

You or your customs broker file an electronic declaration on the VNACCS system, which then assigns a channel. Green is cleared almost immediately; yellow requires a document check; red requires a physical inspection. Once duties are paid and the goods are released, the machine goes to your plant for installation.

6. Used machines: extra conditions

Used CNC machines are governed by Decision 18/2019/QĐ-TTg, with some procedures amended by Decision 02/2026/QĐ-TTg. The main points:

• Machine age is generally limited to 10 years, counted by year of manufacture
• Used machines may only be imported for the importer's own production, not for resale
• An inspection certificate for age and condition is required
• Refurbished machines are still treated as used

A machine over the age limit may be ordered to be re-exported. Check the year of manufacture on the nameplate and in the documents before you pay.

7. How much time to allow

Total lead time has three parts: the supplier's build or delivery time, shipping and customs clearance. For a new machine made to order, build time is usually the longest part, about 2 to 3 months depending on the model. Sea freight is quick: Taichung port to Ho Chi Minh City takes about 5 to 7 days, and Shanghai to Hai Phong also about 5 to 7 days. Clearance usually takes one to a few working days with complete documents, and longer for red-channel inspections or used machines that need an inspection certificate. Ask the supplier for a firm delivery date and add a buffer.

8. Import yourself or buy through a dealer in Vietnam?

Importing directly can be cheaper, but you handle the HS code, customs, freight, installation and warranty yourself. Buying through a dealer in Vietnam usually includes all of this in the price: you get a local VAT invoice, pay in VND, and have one party responsible for installation, training and warranty. For a shop buying its first CNC machine, a dealer is usually the safer route.

This article is current to September 2026 and is for general information only. Tax and customs rules can change; confirm the exact HS code and rates with a customs broker before importing.