Lang Son intensifies crackdown on smuggling and trade fraud

In the third quarter of 2024, authorities in Lang Son handled 1,642 cases related to smuggling, trade fraud, counterfeit goods, and prohibited items. Although the number of cases decreased slightly to 90.17% compared to the same period in 2023, the prosecution efforts made significant strides with 20 criminal cases filed, a dramatic 133.33% increase. Total administrative fines collected reached VND12.96 billion, equating to 62.36% of the amount from the same period last year.

In November 2024, enforcement agencies handled 448 cases involving smuggling, trade fraud, counterfeit goods, and prohibited items, issuing administrative fines for 422 violations. The total administrative penalties exceeded VND5.6 billion, and authorities filed 20 criminal cases against 40 individuals.

According to the Steering Committee on Smuggling, Trade Fraud, and Counterfeit Goods of Lang Son province (Steering Committee 389), the year-end and Lunar New Year periods often see a spike in smuggling and trade fraud due to increased consumer demand and heightened trading and import-export activities.

Smugglers are adopting more sophisticated methods, such as falsifying origins or using fake invoices to cover their tracks, making enforcement efforts increasingly challenging.

Lang Son competent forces seized smuggled firecrackers

The Steering Committee 389 has directed local agencies to tighten enforcement. In particular, the Lang Son Border Guard Command has been instructed to intensify information collection, conduct thorough patrols, and maintain strict control over border areas, including trails and informal crossings. Their efforts focus on dismantling smuggling networks, preventing the establishment of illegal storage sites, and securing high-risk routes often exploited by smugglers.

The Lang Son Customs Department has deployed additional resources and operational tools to strengthen surveillance over customs zones and import-export activities. Their focus includes combating counterfeit goods, trademark violations, and goods with fraudulent origins or intellectual property infringements. Close cooperation with other functional forces ensures effective patrols and enforcement of anti-smuggling measures, particularly targeting high-risk areas and critical commodities.

The Lang Son Provincial Police have focused on dismantling smuggling networks involving fireworks, illicit cigarettes, wildlife products, and counterfeit goods. They also target essential commodities for Lunar New Year, including items with fraudulent origins, while recommending policy changes to address regulatory gaps in anti-smuggling operations.

Lang Son Market Surveillance Department has prioritized inspections and imposed strict penalties on violations related to prohibited goods, counterfeit products, low-quality items, and intellectual property infringements. They have also targeted e-commerce platforms and social media networks for fraudulent trading activities.

Lang Son Tax Department has ramped up audits and investigations into high-risk business sectors, particularly those benefiting from tax exemptions or deferrals. Their efforts include cracking down on the illegal use and sale of fake invoices to legitimize smuggled goods and evade taxes. They actively share information and collaborate with other agencies to investigate and handle violators.

In addition to traditional enforcement efforts, Lang Son authorities are intensifying tax management and control over businesses operating on digital and e-commerce platforms. Violations are promptly detected and addressed in coordination with other enforcement agencies.