Who Issues Liquor Retail Licenses in Vietnam? Authority and Conditions

Quick answer: Liquor retail licenses fall under the issuing authority of provincial-level state agencies under the current two-tier local government model (from 01/07/2025, the district level no longer exists). Liquor retail traders must satisfy the conditions and obtain a Liquor Retail License under Decree No. 105/2017/ND-CP (amended and supplemented by Decree No. 17/2020/ND-CP).

Who issues the Liquor Retail License?

Under Decree No. 105/2017/ND-CP (amended by Decree No. 17/2020/ND-CP) on liquor business, the Liquor Retail License is issued by the competent provincial-level state agency. Note: from 01/07/2025, the two-tier local government model applies nationwide and the district level has been abolished; procedures previously under the authority of district-level Departments of Economy / Departments of Economy and Infrastructure are now handled by provincial-level agencies (the Department of Industry and Trade or a delegated agency).

Conditions for liquor retail

Liquor retail traders must satisfy the conditions: being enterprises, cooperatives, cooperative unions, or business households established in accordance with regulations; having a fixed business location; having an introduction letter or framework contract from a liquor producer, distributor, or wholesaler; and other conditions under Decree No. 105/2017/ND-CP (amended by Decree No. 17/2020/ND-CP).

Applicable legal basis

• Decree No. 105/2017/ND-CP on liquor business (amended and supplemented by Decree No. 17/2020/ND-CP).

Note on Applying Current Legal Regulations

This article is part of the Business & M&A Knowledge series and is presented for reference purposes, helping readers understand the legal issue at a general level before preparing documents or entering into transactions.

Legal regulations may change depending on timing, locality, document type, and specific circumstances. If you need to determine the exact legal basis applicable to your file, please contact ANT Legal’s lawyers at 0966.475.966 for verification and advice before proceeding.

Common Risks to Note

• Applying an outdated, amended, or replaced legal instrument.
• Preparing incomplete dossiers, documents, or evidence.
• Misunderstanding the conditions, procedures, time limits, or competent authorities.
• Signing, filing, or entering into transactions without fully assessing legal risks.

How Can ANT Legal Help?

ANT Legal supports reviewing specific situations, checking dossiers, identifying the applicable legal basis, advising on handling options, and representing clients in dealings with individuals, organizations, or competent authorities when necessary.

For prompt advice, please contact our lawyers at 0966.475.966.

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