> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://help.vinasources.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://help.vinasources.com/for-suppliers/quickstart-1/understanding-product-approval-workflow.md).

# Understanding product approval workflow

## Overview

This article explains the product approval workflow on VinaSources and how products move from creation to being published and visible to buyers.

Understanding the approval workflow helps suppliers know what to expect after submitting a product and how product status affects visibility and buyer interaction.

## Purpose

Understanding the product approval workflow helps suppliers:

* Know when products become visible to buyers
* Avoid confusion about product status
* Prepare accurate product information
* Reduce delays in product publishing

## When Product Approval Is Required

Product approval is required after creating a product listing and before the product is publicly visible. Even if your company profile is approved:

* Products must still be reviewed individually
* Products are not visible to buyers until approved

## Product Approval Workflow

{% stepper %}
{% step %}

### Step 1: Create a Product

* The supplier creates a product listing
* Product information is saved in Draft status
* The product is not visible to buyers

At this stage:

* The supplier can freely edit the product
* The product is not under review
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Step 2: Submit Product for Approval

* The supplier submits the product
* Product status changes to Pending Review

At this stage:

* The product is under review
* The product is not visible to buyers
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Step 3: Product Review

* Submitted products are reviewed according to platform rules
* Product information is checked for completeness and clarity

If issues are found:

* The supplier may need to edit and resubmit the product
  {% endstep %}

{% step %}

### Step 4: Product Approved

* Product status changes to Published
* The product becomes visible on the homepage
* Buyers can view, RFQ, and add the product to cart
  {% endstep %}
  {% endstepper %}

## Product Status Explained

* **Draft:** Product saved but not submitted for approval
* **Pending review:** Product submitted for approval and under review
* **Published:** Product approved and visible on Homepage
* **Rejected:** Product rejected and not visible on Homepage. Supplier needs to edits and resubmits product

## How Product Approval Affects Buyers

Published products:

* Appear on the public homepage
* Can be searched by buyers
* Can receive RFQs with similar product categories
* Can be added to the cart and ordered

Unapproved products are not visible or accessible to buyers.

## Tips & Best Practices

* Complete all required product fields before submission
* Use accurate product categories for correct RFQ matching
* Provide clear descriptions and images
* Review product information carefully before submitting
* Address rejection feedback thoroughly before resubmitting

## Frequently Asked Questions

<details>

<summary>Can I publish a product immediately after creating it?</summary>

No. Products must be submitted and approved before publishing.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Does profile approval guarantee product approval?</summary>

No. Each product is reviewed individually.

</details>

<details>

<summary>Can I update a product after it is published?</summary>

Changes require re-review and temporarily restrict visibility until approved again.

</details>