The technical regulation QCVN 8:2020/BCT specifies technical requirements, testing methods, and management regulations regarding lead content in paints manufactured, imported, and traded within the territory of Vietnam. Lead content is defined as the percentage by mass of lead (calculated as metallic lead (Pb)) existing in all elemental and compound forms in paint.
Lead (chemical symbol Pb) is a component used in paint manufacturing to enhance surface adhesion, improve durability, and increase resistance to weather corrosion. However, it is also a hazardous substance to human health and the environment.
Long-term and excessive exposure to lead may adversely affect the nervous system, respiratory system, cardiovascular system, and immune system. Lead contamination in soil and water also causes toxic pollution to the living environment of humans and other organisms.
On December 21, 2020, the Ministry of Industry and Trade issued Circular No. 51/2020/TT-BCT and the National Technical Regulation on the limits of lead content in paints (QCVN 08:2020/BCT).
This Circular took effect from July 1, 2022. The implementation of QCVN 8:2020/BCT aims to minimize risks to human health and the environment, improve product quality, and enhance corporate social responsibility.

The Chemical Agency is responsible for coordinating with relevant agencies and units to guide and inspect the implementation of QCVN 8:2020/BCT.
The General Department of Market Management is responsible for organizing and directing Market Management forces to inspect, supervise, and handle violations related to lead content limits in paints circulating on the market in accordance with legal regulations.
Departments of Industry and Trade in provinces and centrally governed cities are responsible for coordinating with relevant agencies and units to guide and inspect the implementation of QCVN 8:2020/BCT within their management areas.
Organizations and individuals manufacturing, trading, or importing products listed in Appendix A of QCVN 8:2020/BCT must obtain certification confirming compliance with the prescribed lead content limits.
In addition, before being circulated in the Vietnamese market, paint products must register a Declaration of Conformity with the Department of Industry and Trade where the organization or individual registers manufacturing, trading, or importing activities.
| HS Code | Type of Paint |
|---|---|
| 3208.10.90 | Paints based on synthetic polymers or chemically modified natural polymers, dispersed or dissolved in a non-aqueous medium |
| 3208.20.90 | |
| 3208.90.90 | |
| 3209.10.90 | Paints based on synthetic polymers or chemically modified natural polymers, dispersed or dissolved in an aqueous medium |
| 3209.10.00 | |
| 3210.00.20 | Other paints; prepared water pigments used for finishing leather |
| 3210.00.30 | |
| 3210.00.99 |
| No. | Lead Content (ppm) | Test Method | Applicable Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | ≤ 600 | TCVN 2090:2015 | Within the first 05 years from the effective date of this Regulation |
| 2 | ≤ 90 | TCVN 2090:2015 | After 05 years from the effective date of this Regulation |
ISSQ Institute was established in April 2013 and has more than 10 years of experience in conformity and standard certification. With a highly experienced professional team, ISSQ continuously provides customers with the best services and has earned the trust of many enterprises.
For QCVN 8:2020/BCT, ISSQ has been officially designated by the Ministry of Industry and Trade to conduct conformity certification for enterprises.
Step 1: Receive certification registration documents
Step 2: Sign scientific and technological service contract
Step 3: Conduct surveys and on-site assessments at the enterprise
Step 4: Complete documentation after assessment
Step 5: Review documentation and issue certification (if compliant)
Step 6: Conduct surveillance assessments every 12 months
Step 7: Conduct recertification assessment (certificate validity: 3 years)

ISSQ Quality Institute is always ready to accompany enterprises during the period of integration and development.
Please contact our hotline: (+84) 981851111 or email: vienchatluong@issq.org.vn | tcvn@issq.org.vn. We are honored to serve our valued customers!
Published Date: 25/08/2023