Vietnam is one of the fastest-growing e-commerce markets in Southeast Asia, with nearly 100 million people and a booming digital economy. For international sellers, learning how to start online business in Vietnam is a golden opportunity. To succeed, foreign businesses must prepare across legal, operational, and marketing aspects.
1. Legal Frameworks and Business Models for Foreign Sellers
1.1 Choosing the Right Investment Structure
Foreign companies can enter Vietnam’s e-commerce market through:
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Wholly foreign-owned company – for full control of operations.
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Joint venture – to leverage local expertise and streamline procedures.
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Representative office or branch – for early-stage research and testing.
1.2 Compliance and Regulations
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Identify industries with special conditions.
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Complete business registration and e-commerce licensing.
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Follow taxation, customs, and intellectual property regulations.
Start Online Business in Vietnam: Guide for Foreign Sellers 2025
2. Required Documents for E-commerce Platforms
To register on platforms such as Shopee, Lazada, or TikTok Shop, foreign sellers need:
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Valid business license or investment certificate.
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Brand documentation (trademark or authorization letter).
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Bank account compatible with the Vietnamese market, or use a trusted payment intermediary.
👉 Preparing documents correctly ensures smooth store setup and reduces risks.
3. Understanding Vietnamese Consumer Behavior
Foreign businesses should study local shopping habits, including:
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Price sensitivity – most shoppers compare prices before purchasing.
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Attraction to promotions – discounts, vouchers, and free shipping strongly influence buying decisions.
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Trust-building – consumers rely on livestreams, reviews, and influencer endorsements.
4. Selecting Sales Channels and Marketing Strategies
4.1 Key Platforms
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Shopee – ideal for mass-market products with wide coverage.
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TikTok Shop – fast-growing with its “shoppertainment” short-video model.
4.2 Effective Marketing Mix
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Paid advertising (Shopee Ads, TikTok Ads).
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Livestreaming for direct sales conversion.
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Social media presence to build long-term communities.
5. Operations, Logistics, and Customer Service
Efficient operations are essential for success:
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Work with reliable logistics providers for inventory and delivery.
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Use fulfillment services to reduce costs.
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Provide customer support in Vietnamese to enhance trust and retention.
6. Partnering with a Local Ecommerce Agency
Navigating Vietnam’s e-commerce ecosystem can be complex. Many foreign sellers rely on local partners to handle:
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Legal documentation and compliance.
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Store registration and management.
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Marketing, livestreaming, and influencer campaigns.
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Logistics and Vietnamese-language customer service.
7. Conclusion: Start Online Business in Vietnam with the Right Preparation
To successfully start online business in Vietnam, international sellers must prepare legal documents, understand local consumer behavior, choose the right platforms, and build strong operations. With proper planning and a trusted local partner, foreign businesses can unlock Vietnam’s e-commerce potential in the 2025–2030 period.
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