Code and Barcode Research in Vietnam

In modern life, Code and Barcode has become a useful tool for managing and identifying goods. Looking up information via barcodes helps consumers make informed purchasing decisions and ensure health safety. However, not everyone knows how to conduct barcode lookups effectively. Viet An Law Firm will introduce you to popular tools and methods for Code and Barcode research in Vietnam, helping you uncover the information behind everyday barcodes through the article below.

What is Code and Barcode?

According to Clauses 1 and 2, Article 3 of Circular No. 10/2020/TT-BKHCN on Code and Barcode:

• A Code is a sequence of numbers or letters used to identify products, services, locations, organizations, or individuals.
• A Barcode is a method of storing and transmitting the information of a code through linear bar symbols (one-dimensional barcodes); dot matrices (Data Matrix, QR code, PDF417, and other two-dimensional barcodes); radio frequency identification (RFID) chips; and other identification technologies.

In addition, it is important to understand:

• Global Location Number (GLN): A sequence of numbers consisting of the enterprise prefix and the location identifier under GS1 standards.
• Global Trade Item Number (GTIN): A sequence of numbers consisting of the enterprise prefix and the product identifier under GS1 standards.

What is GS1?

According to Clause 3, Article 3 of Circular No. 10/2020/TT-BKHCN, GS1 (One Global Standard, One Global Solution, One Global System) is the abbreviation for the international Code and Barcode organization that develops and issues international standards on Code and Barcode, and regulates the procedures for management, use, and provision of related services. GS1 has representative members in each country; in Vietnam, that representative is GS1 Vietnam.

GS1 Vietnam is Vietnam’s national Code and Barcode organization, under the Directorate for Standards, Metrology and Quality. In May 1995, GS1 was recognized as an official member of GS1 International. GS1 Vietnam is the sole representative of Vietnam at GS1 International and manages the national code bank 893 (assigned by GS1), allocates enterprise codes, and assists manufacturers, distributors, wholesalers, retailers, and other interested entities in applying Code and Barcode technology in their production, business, and service activities.

Current Types of Code and Barcode

Common types of Code and Barcode include EAN-13, Code 128, UPC, Code 39, Interleaved 2-of-5 (ITF), Codabar, and others.

Among these, EAN-13 is the most widely used globally, including in Vietnam. Below are some barcodes of countries assigned by GS1:

Code and Barcode Research

According to the Vietnam Code and Barcode Organization, in order for goods to have these sequences of Code and Barcode and to be legally circulated in both domestic and foreign markets, enterprises must join EAN Vietnam (with an entry fee and annual fee). Subsequently, the enterprise will be provided with an M code by EAN Vietnam and guided on how to create I codes for each product line. The creation of I codes must follow the correct principles as prescribed by law and ensure accessibility by the tools for Code and Barcode Research.

Using Software for Code and Barcode Research

Scan and Check is the official, free barcode scanning application on mobile phones (Android and iOS) developed by the Directorate for Standards, Metrology, and Quality (STAMEQ) – the state management agency for Code and Barcode – to verify the legality of the Code and Barcode and authenticate product origin and attributes. To conduct Code and Barcode Research, users should follow these steps:

Step 1: Download and install the “Scan and Check” application from Google Play Store or the App Store.

Step 2: Open the application.

Step 3: Scan your phone’s camera parallel to the barcode you want to check, or manually enter the barcode in the “enter barcode manually” field.

Within this application, information is provided according to international standards, with detailed images, product descriptions, reference prices, and other quality and safety details. Additionally, users can view information about the enterprise that owns the product, within the scope permitted by law.

Looking Up Barcode Information on Online Websites

Using the Internet to find information is increasingly common. By performing a few simple steps: typing keywords into Google, websites that help you easily check barcodes will appear immediately.

Some commonly used barcode check websites include:

• ScandIT
• UPC Index
• Barcode Database
• Barcode Lookup
• EANdata

Advantages of registering a Code and Barcode

For consumers:

• Clear and quick product information: By simply scanning the barcode, consumers can easily access detailed product information such as origin, ingredients, expiration dates, price, etc. This helps them make more informed purchasing decisions.
• Detection of counterfeit or imitation goods: Barcodes help verify a product’s authenticity, preventing consumers from buying poor-quality items and protecting their rights.
• Time-saving shopping experience:Barcode scanners accelerate checkout processes in stores, saving time for consumers.

For enterprises:

• Effective goods management: Barcodes enable enterprises to conveniently manage inventory, track import/export processes, and reduce shortages or excessive stockpiling.
• Increased sales efficiency: Using barcodes shortens checkout times, raises staff productivity, and provides a better shopping experience for customers.

For the government:

• Effective market management: Barcodes allow government authorities to monitor and manage the flow of goods in the market, detect, and handle trade fraud.
• Consumer protection: Barcodes help government agencies control product quality in the market, safeguarding consumers’ rights.

Should your enterprise have any difficulty in Code and Barcode research in Vietnam, please contact Viet An Law Firm for prompt and accurate support!