No, owning a ferret in Vietnam is prohibited under the 2024 Law on Animal Health and Decree 14/2024/ND-CP, which classify ferrets (Mustela putorius furo) as invasive alien species. The Ministry of Agriculture and Rural Development (MARD) enforces a zero-tolerance policy, requiring confiscation of existing pets and banning imports. Exceptions exist only for scientific research with MARD approval, but domestic ownership remains illegal.
Key Regulations for Owning a Ferret in Vietnam
- Prohibited Species Status: Ferrets are listed in MARD’s Invasive Alien Species List (2024), aligning with Vietnam’s obligations under the Convention on Biological Diversity. Unauthorized possession risks fines up to ₫50 million (Decree 14/2024/ND-CP, Article 27).
- Import Ban: The Law on Animal Health (2024) and Circular 02/2024/TT-BNNPTNT prohibit ferret imports without MARD’s Certificate of Animal Health. Border quarantine stations (e.g., Noi Bai, Tan Son Nhat) enforce this strictly.
- Enforcement and Penalties: Local authorities (e.g., Department of Animal Health, provincial police) conduct periodic checks. Violators face confiscation, mandatory euthanasia, or administrative penalties under the Administrative Violation Law (2023 amendments).