February 24, 2011
Fake animal feed producers in Vietnam to face fine
Counterfeit animal feed producers in Vietnam will face a fine of VND35 million (US$1,700) beginning March 15, 2011 under a new government decree.
Additionally, fake producers will have their products withdrawn from sale and destroyed.
Under the new regulation, those producing livestock feed without business licences or engaged in the import and trade of livestock feed not permitted for production and circulation in Vietnam will be liable for a fine of between VND30-40 million (US$1,500-$2,000).
A fine of between VND35-40 million will be applied to animal feed processing factories that continue to produce animal feed while under suspension by authorised agencies.
Animal feed trading companies found to have no shops, signs or clear trading addresses will be subjected to a fine of between VND1-2 million (US$50-$100). This is the first time specific disciplinary regulations related to livestock feed production and trade has been issued, said Nguyen Van Thanh, head of inspection office of the Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development's Department of Animal Husbandry.
"The regulation is expected to help prevent the production and trade of low-quality animal feed, as at present inspectors are using regulations only related to violations of agriculture and rural development rules," he said.