Implementing the SAFE Framework in Vietnam: Solutions and Recommendations

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Some proposed solutions for the 2026–2030 period include:

Legal Framework

Enhancing the legal foundation to implement core elements of the SAFE Framework.

-Customs Law: Vietnam Customs should review and update regulations to manage integrated and priority supply chains, expand “customs declarant” roles (e.g., for cross-border e-commerce participants), and introduce cross-border e-commerce protocols. Additional AEO (Authorized Economic Operator) criteria should be added, including trade partner security, crisis management and recovery, and risk analysis improvements. The list of priority entities should extend to AEO-certified customs brokers, transport and warehousing companies, e-commerce partners, and small and medium enterprises. Priority mechanisms for AEOs should also expand across customs, specialized inspection, and transport when companies voluntarily adopt advanced, smart technologies to maintain the integrity of goods in the supply chain. Furthermore, new guidelines for Customs-Business partnerships should encourage voluntary compliance, including support measures, compliance checks, and incentives.

-Decrees and Circulars: Reviewing and updating decrees and circulars guiding the Customs Law to include details on AEO conditions, supply chain and personnel security, crisis management, priority status, and certification procedures. Information-sharing protocols among Customs, businesses, government ministries, and cross-border customs authorities, especially with neighboring countries, are essential. Additional provisions should cover a unique consignment reference (UCR), trader identification number (TIN), pre-arrival information requirements per SAFE recommendations, and performance metrics (e.g., cargo screening data). Moreover, risk management techniques should align with World Customs Organization (WCO) guidelines.

-Vietnam Customs should also provide feedback to the Ministry of Public Security on the draft Law on Data and coordinate with the Ministry of Information and Communications on amendments to the E-Transactions Law, covering data collection, analysis, quality, and shared data usage protocols. Furthermore, it should outline the responsibilities and coordination mechanisms among the Customs authority and other ministries and agencies in utilizing the shared data set.

Systems and Data

-Integrated Automated Clearance and National Single Window System: Businesses submit pre-arrival electronic data (one comprehensive customs dossier) to a centralized system for processing. Customs and other relevant agencies can access this system to conduct document and physical inspections, and issue a unified result. Once all checks are completed, a single action (system approval) releases goods. This integration simplifies procedures, reducing administrative burdens and expediting clearance. This significant advancement in trade facilitation marks a major milestone in the reform and modernization efforts of the Customs Authority and other government agencies. To sustain this momentum, close collaboration among the Customs Authority and other ministries is imperative in automating systems, developing standardized criteria, and establishing a shared database for risk assessment and priority identification

-AEO Certification System: An automated system to receive AEO certification applications, assess and grant or deny AEO status, monitor compliance, issue alerts, and encourage voluntary compliance.

-Data Management: Standardizing data formats per the WCO Data Model for easy exchange and analysis. Building a comprehensive data control process covering collection, analysis, and updates.

-Operational Procedures: Establishing protocols for connecting NII scanners and smart security devices to compliance and risk assessment systems, integrating pre-arrival risk information, signing AEO Mutual Recognition Agreements (MRAs), and evaluating the effectiveness of data processing systems and risk management.

Resources for SAFE Framework Implementation

-Strengthening the National Steering Committee on ASEAN Single Window, National Single Window and trade facilitation to enhance cooperation across agencies, positioning Customs as the lead agency.

-A dedicated unit will be established to oversee the comprehensive implementation of the SAFE Framework, the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) program, and partnerships between customs, businesses, and other stakeholders. The primary responsibilities of this unit will include interagency collaboration, support for exporting and importing businesses, and the promotion of AEO certification to enhance Vietnam's investment attractiveness and customs administration efficiency.

-Allocating specialized resources and facilities for AEO transactions at customs branches, providing dedicated personnel and services.

Recommendations

The successful and comprehensive implementation of the SAFE Framework and the realization of the aforementioned solutions in the Customs Development Strategy to 2030 hinge on strong leadership from the General Department of Customs, unwavering commitment from its affiliated units, active involvement of other government agencies, approval from the Prime Minister, and close collaboration with international partners, particularly neighboring countries. Key actions include:

-To facilitate further reforms, the General Department of Vietnam Customs will propose amendments to the Customs Law and related regulations to the National Assembly, the Government, the Ministry of Finance, and other relevant agencies. Concurrently, the Department will enhance the automated customs clearance system, the national single window, and the AEO certification process.

-Partnering with other ministries to develop joint administrative and inspection procedures, risk management, data analysis, and mutual recognition of inspection results, priority regime of AEO, AEO MRA in the customs sector and other sectors under the authority of ministries, branches, etc.

-Conducting a legal review and assessing system efficiency, aligning strategies with SAFE Framework recommendations and the Customs Development Strategy through 2030.

-Raising awareness across the customs sector about the SAFE Framework.