On April 17, 2025, the Prime Minister of Vietnam issued a directive addressing the alarming rise in the production and distribution of counterfeit milk products, which has raised serious public health concerns. This directive follows the discovery of nearly 600 types of fake milk being marketed, leading to widespread anxiety among consumers who unknowingly purchased these products. The Prime Minister acknowledged the public's unease and emphasized the need for urgent action to ensure food safety and consumer protection.
In response to the situation, the Prime Minister tasked the Ministry of Public Security with accelerating the investigation and bringing those responsible to justice. The Ministry of Industry and Trade was also instructed to enhance market management to prevent the production and sale of counterfeit food products, including milk. Furthermore, the Ministry of Culture, Sports, and Tourism was directed to review and address violations in food advertising across various media platforms.
Local authorities have been assigned to inspect compliance with food safety regulations concerning milk products and to address any violations promptly. The Prime Minister's directive underscores the government's commitment to tackling food fraud, particularly in sectors that directly affect public health.
The investigation into the large-scale production of counterfeit milk powder has already led to significant legal actions. Eight defendants from Rance Pharma and Hacofood Group have been prosecuted for producing and selling counterfeit food and violating accounting regulations. These companies allegedly marketed their fake milk products as suitable for individuals with diabetes, kidney failure, premature infants, and pregnant women, despite using substandard ingredients and misleading consumers about the products' benefits.
According to the authorities, the quality of the milk powder produced by these companies was found to be below 70% of the declared levels, confirming it as counterfeit. To promote their products, the defendants reportedly hired social media influencers to make false and exaggerated claims about the milk's health benefits, further endangering consumers.
As of April 11, 2025, the network had produced 573 types of fake milk powder, generating nearly 500 billion VND in revenue. Additionally, Rance Pharma and Hacofood Group are accused of evading over 28 billion VND in taxes. During searches of 19 locations, authorities seized 84 types of milk powder products, including 26,740 cans from 90 production batches, along with other relevant items and documents.
The Prime Minister's directive also highlights a broader issue regarding counterfeit medicines and health protection foods, as Deputy Prime Minister Le Thanh Long recently signed a directive addressing similar concerns. The government has recognized that the production and trade of counterfeit medicines and health products have been ongoing for years, posing significant risks to public health.
Authorities have discovered the production and trade of counterfeit medicines and health protection foods in Thanh Hoa province and other areas. The Prime Minister has called for an immediate review and recall of any detected fake medicines and health products to minimize the potential harm to consumers.
The Ministry of Health has been instructed to collaborate closely with the Ministry of Public Security to investigate and address the counterfeit goods trade. Local governments are also urged to take swift action to review and recall any detected fake products, ensuring that public health is prioritized.
To strengthen market control, the Ministry of Health is working with the Ministry of Industry and Trade and other agencies to implement measures that prevent the circulation of counterfeit medicines and health protection foods. Increased inspections and compliance checks are mandatory, particularly in key areas where these products are sold.
Moreover, the government is pushing for stricter regulations concerning the wholesale and retail of medicines. Only registered drugs with proper invoices and origins will be allowed for trade, and all sales must adhere to prescription requirements. Violations will be met with severe penalties.
The Prime Minister's directive emphasizes the importance of public awareness regarding the dangers of using counterfeit medicines and health products. The Ministry of Public Security has been tasked with expediting investigations and ensuring that violators are held accountable under the law. Police at all levels are encouraged to enhance their monitoring efforts to detect and prevent the production and distribution of counterfeit goods.
This comprehensive approach aims to elevate the standards of public health and safety in Vietnam, addressing the growing concerns surrounding counterfeit products. The government’s commitment to tackling these issues reflects a broader effort to protect consumers and maintain the integrity of the food and pharmaceutical industries.
As the investigation unfolds, it remains critical for consumers to stay informed about the products they purchase and to report any suspicious items. The government’s proactive measures signal a significant step towards ensuring that public health is safeguarded against the threats posed by counterfeit goods.
