Vietnam's New WPC Formaldehyde Standard Takes Effect May 2026, Impacting China's Paper-Based Food Packaging Exports

Introduction

Vietnam's Ministry of Industry and Trade announced on April 18 that starting May 1, 2026, all imported wood-plastic composite (WPC) boards and similar alternative materials, including paper-based water-resistant food packaging, must comply with the EN 717-1:2023 formaldehyde emission limit (≤0.1 ppm). This regulation directly affects Chinese exporters of paper-based food packaging, particularly those supplying to Vietnam via European and American markets, creating dual compliance pressures. The food packaging, WPC manufacturing, and export trade sectors should closely monitor these changes to adapt their supply chains and production standards.

Event Overview

Vietnam's Ministry of Industry and Trade issued Announcement No. 28/QĐ-BCT on April 18, 2026, mandating that from May 1, 2026, all imported WPC boards and substitute materials—such as paper-based food packaging with PHA bio-based barrier coatings—must meet the EN 717-1:2023 formaldehyde standard (≤0.1 ppm). The regulation explicitly covers paper cups, bowls, and other food-contact packaging, impacting manufacturers exporting to Vietnam, especially those relying on transshipment through Europe or the U.S.

Impact on Sub-Sectors

Direct Exporters of Paper-Based Food Packaging

Chinese manufacturers exporting paper-based food packaging to Vietnam, particularly those using PHA coatings, must now ensure compliance with the stricter formaldehyde limits. Non-compliance could disrupt shipments or lead to rejections at Vietnamese ports.

WPC and Alternative Material Suppliers

Suppliers of WPC boards or bio-based barrier materials face increased scrutiny. The regulation may require reformulation or additional testing to meet the 0.1 ppm threshold, potentially raising production costs.

Transshipment-Dependent Exporters

Companies routing goods through Europe or the U.S. to Vietnam now face dual compliance challenges: adhering to both EU/U.S. standards and Vietnam's new formaldehyde rules, complicating logistics and certification processes.

Key Focus Areas and Recommended Actions

1. Verify Material Compliance

Manufacturers should immediately test existing paper-based packaging and WPC materials against EN 717-1:2023. Early adjustments to coatings or adhesives may prevent future disruptions.

2. Update Supply Chain Documentation

Exporters must ensure all compliance certificates (e.g., for PHA coatings) explicitly reference the new standard. Vietnamese customs are likely to enforce strict documentation checks.

3. Monitor Vietnam’s Enforcement Timeline

While the rule takes effect in 2026, Vietnam may phase in testing requirements. Companies should track updates from the Vietnamese Ministry of Industry and Trade to align production schedules.

4. Explore Alternative Markets

For manufacturers unable to meet the 0.1 ppm limit cost-effectively, diversifying to markets with less stringent formaldehyde rules (e.g., Southeast Asia outside Vietnam) could mitigate risks.

Editorial Perspective

From an industry standpoint, Vietnam’s adoption of EN 717-1:2023 signals a broader trend toward stricter formaldehyde regulations in emerging markets. While the immediate impact is limited to WPC and paper-based packaging, the move suggests Vietnam may align more closely with European environmental standards in other sectors. Companies should treat this as a precedent for future regulatory shifts in the region.

Conclusion

Vietnam’s new WPC formaldehyde standard underscores the growing convergence of global environmental regulations. For Chinese exporters, proactive compliance testing and supply chain adjustments will be critical to maintaining market access. The regulation is less a standalone change than part of a wider push for safer materials—a trend likely to accelerate in other Asian markets.

Source Information

Primary source: Vietnam Ministry of Industry and Trade Announcement No. 28/QĐ-BCT (April 18, 2026). Ongoing monitoring is advised for potential updates to enforcement guidelines or testing protocols.