Tax authorities crack down on invoice fraud to legalize smuggled goods

Illustration image. Source: Internet

The General Department of Taxation has been directed to tighten controls on industries with high risks of tax violations, including fuel, telecommunications, pharmaceuticals, banking, consumer goods, and luxury products like gold and gemstones. These measures focus on preventing businesses from using invoices to legitimize smuggled goods or evade taxes.

Authorities are paying special attention to border areas, seaports, and wholesale markets in major cities such as Lang Son, Quang Ninh, Lao Cai, Ho Chi Minh City, and Hanoi, which are hotspots for smuggling activities.

Given the rapid growth of digital platforms, tax authorities are stepping up efforts to monitor e-commerce activities. Enhanced invoice management systems aim to prevent illegal invoice trading and the misuse of invoices for smuggling or tax evasion in online markets.

With demand for goods surging ahead of the Lunar New Year, oversight is being ramped up for businesses dealing in livestock, alcohol, beer, tobacco, confectionery, electronics, and luxury items. Authorities are tracking market trends and price fluctuations to swiftly identify and address violations.

Tax authorities are working closely with law enforcement to investigate and prosecute cases involving the transportation of goods without valid invoices or documentation, invoice recycling for tax refunds or fraud.