Meeting Europe's high demand for exotic marine life creates a significant opportunity for businesses in the UK, France, Germany, and the Netherlands. However, the international importation process is complex, making a reliable, expert partner essential for success.

Since 2012, THIENDUC AQUARIUM has been a leading Vietnamese exporter of ornamental fish. We leverage our expertise to supply both freshwater and high-quality marine specimens to our global partners. This guide is designed for our European clients, simplifying the process of sourcing Live Marine Fish for Import and ensuring a smooth transaction from our facility to your door.

Step 1: Foundational Research and Strategic Planning

Success in the aquatic trade begins long before any order is placed. Meticulous planning is the bedrock of a profitable and sustainable business, especially when dealing with the delicate logistics of Live Marine Fish for Import.

Species Selection and Sourcing from a Trusted Partner

Know Your Fish: The European market has a sophisticated palate for specific, high-quality species. Your initial research should focus on varieties that not only appeal to your customer base but are also hardy enough to withstand international transit. Understanding their specific care requirements is crucial for long-term success.

Check Regulations: Familiarize yourself with CITES (Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species) and any EU-specific restrictions. Partnering with an experienced exporter like THIENDUC AQUARIUM removes the guesswork. We ensure every fish we supply is fully compliant with international regulations, providing you with complete peace of mind.

Find a Reputable Exporter: Your choice of supplier is the single most important decision you will make. THIENDUC AQUARIUM prides itself on sustainable collection practices, rigorous health protocols, and transparent communication. We provide robustly conditioned fish, ready for their journey, making us a premier source for Live Marine Fish for Import.

Understanding European Union Import Laws

The EU has stringent regulations to protect its ecosystem and ensure animal welfare. Compliance is your responsibility as an importer.

Identify Governing Bodies: Each member state has its own competent authorities, but all fall under the umbrella of EU regulations, such as the TRACES (Trade Control and Expert System) platform for tracking live animal imports.

List Required Permits: Create a checklist of all necessary licenses. This typically includes an importer’s license for your business and permits for a registered quarantine facility. We can advise you on the documentation required from our end to support your applications.

Financial Planning & Budgeting

A clear budget is essential. Consider every possible cost:

• Cost of the fish

• Air freight from Vietnam to your nearest major EU airport (e.g., FRA, CDG, AMS)

• Customs duties and VAT

• Fees for a customs broker specializing in live animals

• Costs associated with operating your quarantine facility

• A contingency fund for any unforeseen veterinary needs

Step 2: Acquiring Essential Permits and Documentation

With your research complete, the next phase involves official paperwork. Proper documentation is non-negotiable and ensures a smooth passage through customs.

The Importer's License

Your business must be officially registered and licensed to import live animals into the EU. This process is handled by the relevant authorities in your country (e.g., DEFRA in the UK, NVWA in the Netherlands).

Species-Specific Permits

For any CITES-listed species, you will need to secure the appropriate permits before the shipment can be booked. THIENDUC AQUARIUM will provide the corresponding CITES export permit from Vietnam to facilitate this process.

Coordinating with THIENDUC AQUARIUM for Export Documents

We make this part easy. We provide a complete, EU-compliant document package with every shipment of Live Marine Fish for Import, including:

• Veterinary Health Certificate: Issued by Vietnamese authorities, attesting to the health of the fish.

• Commercial Invoice: Detailing the species, quantities, and value for customs purposes.

• Packing List: A comprehensive list of the contents of each box.

• Certificate of Origin: Confirming the fish originated from Vietnam.

Step 3: Preparing Your Quarantine Facility

A dedicated, professionally managed quarantine facility is not just a regulatory requirement in the EU; it is the cornerstone of responsible livestock management. It protects your investment and the health of your existing stock.

The Importance of Quarantine

Quarantine is your first line of defense against the introduction of pests and diseases. A properly executed quarantine ensures the fish are fully rested, adapted, and feeding well before they are sold, significantly increasing their long-term survival rate and protecting your business's reputation.

Setting Up the System

Your quarantine setup must be a completely isolated system. This means separate tanks, filtration, water, nets, and other equipment that never come into contact with your main systems. Ensure you have proper life support, reliable heating, and accurate water testing kits to maintain pristine conditions for your new Live Marine Fish for Import.

Quarantine Protocols

Create a rigorous SOP (standard operating procedure). This should define the quarantine duration (typically a minimum of 2-4 weeks), a daily observation checklist, feeding schedules, and protocols for any necessary therapeutic treatments

Step 4: The Shipping and Transit Process

With decades of collective experience, THIENDUC AQUARIUM has perfected the art and science of packing and shipping live animals globally.

Logistics Coordination

We work with trusted freight forwarders and airlines to secure the most direct and timely routes from Ho Chi Minh City (SGN) to your destination airport. We recommend you engage a customs broker in your country who specializes in Live Marine Fish for Import to handle the final clearance.

Our Advanced Packing Method

We pack our fish to IATA (International Air Transport Association) standards. Each fish is placed in specialized bags with clean water, medical-grade oxygen, and water conditioners to reduce stress and neutralize ammonia. These bags are secured in insulated, clearly labeled boxes to maintain a stable temperature throughout the journey.

Tracking the Shipment

Once the shipment is dispatched, we provide you with all the flight details and tracking numbers, allowing you to monitor its progress and prepare for its timely collection.

Step 5: Arrival, Customs Clearance, and Final Transport

The arrival process is a critical, time-sensitive step.

At the Airport

Your customs broker will be your representative at the airport's cargo facility. They will coordinate the reception of the shipment and its transfer to the Border Control Post (BCP) for inspection.

The Inspection Process

Officials will conduct a documentary check and may perform a physical inspection of the fish to ensure they match the paperwork and appear healthy. The comprehensive and accurate documentation provided by THIENDUC AQUARIUM is designed to make this process as efficient as possible when clearing your Live Marine Fish for Import.

Clearing Formalities

Once the inspection is complete and all duties are paid, the shipment will be released to you or your designated transport agent.

The Final Leg

Transport from the airport to your facility must be swift and climate-controlled. Have your quarantine tanks ready and waiting to minimize any additional stress on the animals.

Step 6: Acclimation and Quarantine Period

How you handle the fish in these first few hours and weeks will determine their long-term success.

Proper Acclimation Procedure

Never rush acclimation. We recommend a slow drip acclimation method over at least an hour to allow the fish to gradually adjust to the temperature and water parameters of your quarantine tank. Reduce stress by keeping the lights low.

Managing Fish in Quarantine

For the next few weeks, your primary tasks are observation and maintaining perfect water quality. Feed sparingly at first and watch for signs of stress or illness. A well-managed quarantine allows the fish to fully recover from their journey and begin thriving in their new environment.

Graduating from Quarantine

Only after the fish have completed the full quarantine period without any signs of disease, are feeding eagerly, and appear active and robust should they be moved into your main sales systems.

Partner with THIENDUC AQUARIUM for Success

The journey of Live Marine Fish for Import from the waters of Vietnam to a European aquarium is complex, but it doesn’t have to be difficult. By following these steps and partnering with an experienced and dedicated exporter like THIENDUC AQUARIUM, you can build a successful, reputable, and profitable business. We are committed to providing our EU partners with the highest quality aquatic life, backed by exceptional service and logistical expertise.

Let us be your gateway to the vibrant world of tropical marine fish.

Contact Information: 

• Address: 57 Le Thi Sieng, Tan Thong Hoi, Cu Chi, Ho Chi Minh City, Viet Nam 

• Mobile: +84903912501 

• Office: +84982577871 

• Email: thien@thienducaquarium.com