Diversifying solutions on Customs – Business Partnership Development

Deputy Director of the Customs Reform and Modernization Board Luong Khanh Thiet talked with businesses. Photo: T.H

On August 6, 2024, a workshop was held to assess the progress and effectiveness of the Customs-Business partnership over the past decade (2014-2024). Organized jointly by the Customs Modernization Reform Board (General Department of Vietnam Customs) and Binh Duong Customs Department, the event brought together domestic and foreign enterprises frequently engaged in import-export activities in Binh Duong province.

At the workshop, representatives from the Customs Modernization Reform Board presented an overview of the solutions implemented to foster the Customs-Business partnership over the past ten years. They also solicited feedback and innovative proposals from businesses regarding support mechanisms and the most effective ways to leverage digital technology to strengthen the partnership.

In response to the Customs’ initiatives, import-export enterprises in Binh Duong acknowledged the Customs’ proactive efforts in developing a diverse range of partnership solutions. They also shared their insights, experiences, and best practices in management, technical processes, and digital transformation.

Tetra Pak Binh Duong, a manufacturing company, highlighted the significant support they have received from the Binh Duong Customs Department and its branches, especially considering the company’s rapid growth and increased import-export volume.

Far Eastern Vietnam Company, a 100% Taiwanese-owned enterprise, shared their experience in improving their customs compliance level by three steps. They emphasized the importance of clear guidance and support from the Customs authorities, especially for foreign enterprises that may not be fully familiar with local regulations. For example, the company regularly calls and meets directly with the Customs for consultation. Thanks to specific guidance, the company implements regulations more accurately, avoids errors, and increases the level of compliance day by day. Since 2016, the level of compliance of the company assessed by the Customs has increased from level 4 to level 1.

Panasonic Vietnam proposed that, in addition to investing in modern equipment, it is crucial to enhance the skills of carrying out customs procedures of employees. Mr. Tran Van Uc, Head of Import-Export Department at Panasonic, suggested that the General Department of Vietnam Customs and the Binh Duong Customs Department organize more specialized training programs to keep businesses updated on the latest procedures and regulations.

Mr. Tran Van Uc, Head of Import-Export Department of Panasonic Co., Ltd. spoke at the workshop. Photo: T.H

Based on the positive experiences with customs consultations, businesses recommended establishing a regular consultation schedule for specific topics.

Regarding legal document, they also emphasized the need for clear and concise legal documents to facilitate compliance and avoid misunderstandings.

To improve communication and interaction between Customs authorities and businesses, some participants suggested creating online platforms for consultations, such as social media and email.

Deputy Director of Binh Duong Customs Department, Nguyen Thanh Binh, acknowledged the valuable feedback and suggestions from businesses and addressed some of their concerns regarding import-export procedures and tax refunds.

In closing, Luong Khanh Thiet, Deputy Head of the Standing Board of the Customs Modernization Reform Board, emphasized the importance of the Customs-Business partnership in achieving mutual goals. He encouraged businesses to actively participate in providing feedback to help improve customs procedures and policies.

"The Customs authority has received many comments from businesses. We hope that businesses carrying out import-export procedures in Binh Duong province will regularly accompany, participate, consult, and contribute ideas to improve legal policies and operational programs of the Customs sector so that customs procedures will become more and more convenient." - Mr. Luong Khanh Thiet proposed.