In a bid to streamline border operations and facilitate smoother trade of agricultural goods, particularly durian exports, Vietnam’s Department of Customs has instructed its local sub-departments to hasten customs clearance processes at border checkpoints.
This directive, which was issued recently, calls for the regional customs branches to provide maximum assistance and ensure same-day clearance of exported agricultural, forestry, and fishery products. This is to be implemented even outside standard operational hours. Furthermore, the order advised the appointment of officers to oversee export shipments and handle customs procedures, even during off-hours, such as evenings, weekends, and public holidays.
Sub-departments have been directed to swiftly resolve any issues that may arise during customs clearance. Should the situation exceed their jurisdiction, they are to promptly refer the matter to the department for further guidance.
The directive also emphasized the need for collaboration with warehouse and storage operators at border gates. This collaboration is essential to ensure the availability of proper facilities for the storage and sorting of goods awaiting export. This measure will help maintain the quality of agricultural, forestry, and fishery products.
Regular updates regarding the progress of agricultural, forestry, and fishery exports are required, along with offering timely information and advice to exporters using local border gates. Coordination with relevant authorities is needed to control traffic and prevent congestion that could disrupt customs clearance.
Constant dialogue is also critical with customs authorities at corresponding Chinese border gates. This is to ensure the swift resolution of issues that may arise during customs clearance, as well as keeping Vietnamese exporters abreast of any changes to China’s customs management and inspection policies for compliance assurance.
For shipments that have exited Vietnam but are denied entry into China, customs authorities have been asked to prioritize and expedite re-import procedures based on the request of enterprises.
The department has also explicitly forbidden any acts of obstruction, harassment, or unnecessary delays in customs clearance, which could escalate costs and result in losses for businesses.
What is the main aim of the directive issued by Vietnam’s Department of Customs?
The aim is to expedite customs clearance at border gates for agricultural exports, particularly durian shipments, and to ensure smooth trade operations.
How will the regional customs sub-departments facilitate this process?
They are instructed to provide maximum assistance, ensure same-day clearance of exports, resolve issues promptly, and maintain regular communication with corresponding Chinese border gates.
What measures are being taken to prevent potential issues during customs clearance?
The sub-departments must coordinate with warehouse and storage operators at border gates for appropriate facilities, provide regular updates, inform exporters of changes in China’s customs policies, and prioritize re-import procedures for rejected consignments.
