The HCM City Customs Department has been implementing a number of measures to help the local business community optimise the benefits from the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement (EVFTA) and boost import-export activities.

Head of HCM City's Customs Department Dinh Ngoc Thang speaks at the event.

Speaking at a seminar held jointly by the department and the European Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (EuroCham) on October 6, head of the department Dinh Ngoc Thang noted the customs sector views the trade agreement as being able to create breakthroughs in export activities and expand supply chains between Vietnam and the EU.

The department has therefore introduced a host of measures to support local enterprises. Prior to the deal coming into force, for example, it held intensive training for businesses and dialogue with UK and EU businesses in Vietnam, to help resolve any and all difficulties.

It has also given focus to improving the capacity of its staff and stepped up the application of information technology to meet the more stringent requirements, Thang said.

He affirmed that the department is willing to hear from businesses regarding import-export management policies, tax policies, and customs procedures, so as to promptly handle any difficulties facing businesses and create a fair and transparent business and investment climate.

Standing Vice Chairman of the HCM City People’s Committee, Le Thanh Liem, said the EU is one of Vietnam’s most important economic partners.

Amid COVID-19, the EVFTA will open up more cooperation opportunities between the two sides and serve as a new driver helping them overcome difficulties brought about by global economic changes.

EuroCham Vice President Jean Jacques Bouflet hailed the efforts made by the HCM City Customs Department to facilitate bilateral trade and support the enforcement of the EVFTA.

He said EuroCham considers the customs sector to be its biggest partner in boosting bilateral trade, as more than half of all goods shipped between the EU and Vietnam currently pass through HCM City border gates and ports.