Did you know? With a valid FORM E certificate under the ASEAN-China Free Trade Area (ACFTA), import duties on steel doors into Vietnam can be reduced to 0% .
Without it, your Vietnamese buyer could pay 15–25% in import duties. This guide shows you — and your customers — exactly how to obtain and use FORM E correctly.
What is FORM E?
FORM E is the Certificate of Origin under the ASEAN-China Free Trade Agreement. It proves that goods originate from China and qualifies them for:
Country Tariff with FORM E Tariff without FORM E Savings
Vietnam 0% 15–25% $1,500–2,500 per container
Thailand 0% 10–20% $1,000–2,000 per container
Indonesia 0% 5–15% $500–1,500 per container
Malaysia 0% 10–20% $1,000–2,000 per container
Steel Door HS Code Classification
For FORM E purposes, steel doors are typically classified under:
Product HS Code Notes
Steel doors and frames 7308.30 Iron/steel doors, windows, and frames
Door locks and hardware 8301.40 If imported separately
⚠️ Important: The HS code on your FORM E must match your Commercial Invoice and the buyer‘s import declaration in Vietnam. Discrepancies will cause customs delays or rejection of preferential tariff treatment.
How to Apply for FORM E: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Register with Chinese Customs
Log into China International Trade “Single Window” (singlewindow.cn) or the Customs Government Service Platform. Complete your company profile under “Enterprise Information Management.”
Step 2: Prepare your application
Select “China-ASEAN FTA Certificate of Origin” as the certificate type. Enter:
Exporter name and address
Consignee (your Vietnamese buyer‘s company name and address)
Product description (steel security door, specifications)
HS code (7308.30)
Origin criterion (typically “PE” for “wholly obtained / produced using non-originating materials meeting the product specific rule”)
Invoice number and date
Quantity and FOB value
Step 3: Submit and wait for approval
Customs will review your application. Most approvals are electronic and issued within 1–2 business days.
Step 4: Print the certificate
For shipments to Vietnam, FORM E can be self-printed after approval. You‘ll need to:
Upload your company‘s seal and authorized signature to the Single Window system
Use A4 paper to print the certificate
Apply the company seal in the designated box
Step 5: Send the original to your buyer
Email the electronic version immediately, and courier the original printed certificate to your Vietnamese buyer for customs clearance.
Common FORM E Mistakes to Avoid
Mistake Consequence How to Avoid
HS code mismatch Customs rejection, loss of preferential tariff Confirm HS code with buyer‘s customs broker before issuing
Late application Some certificates not accepted after shipment Apply within 3 days of shipment for China-Vietnam trade
Incorrect origin criterion Certificate invalid Use “PE” for processed products meeting RVC requirement
Missing company seal Certificate rejected Ensure original has wet seal before shipping to buyer
Partial shipment not declared Certificate partial validity Apply for one certificate per shipment, or use “SP” (split shipment) notation
💡 Pro tip: For continuous shipments, apply for one FORM E per shipment. Each certificate covers only one consignment.
Why FORM E Compliance Matters for Your Vietnam Business
Beyond tariff savings, having FORM E capability signals to Vietnamese buyers that you are a professional exporter who:
✅ Understands Vietnam‘s import procedures
✅ Can provide full documentation for smooth clearance
✅ Reduces their landed cost, making your offer more competitive
✅ Holds valid origin status (critical for anti-dumping investigations)
📩 Partner with us — We handle FORM E application for every Vietnam-bound order. Ask about our documentation guarantee for hassle-free customs clearance.