The implementation of working mechanisms in accordance with requirements in some localities amid the Covid-19 pandemic has affected the time and progress of goods clearance for firms. The Ministry of Finance has requested local governments to support customs operations.

Customs officers of Hung Yen Customs Branch and Hai Phong Customs Branch at work.
Photo: Thai Binh

Implementing Government Resolution 105 and basing on recommendations at working sessions between the Prime Minister and Ambassadors of European countries, the US Embassy Chargé d'affaires, and European and American associations and businesses in Vietnam, and the business community, the Ministry of Finance has proposed municipal and provincial governments support work related to assignment of customs officers to ensure smooth customs clearance and vaccination for Customs officers.

Over the past time, the General Department of Vietnam Customs has directed customs officers to work in accordance with regulations of local governments such as receiving, checking customs dossiers and implementing customs procedures for imports and exports; setting up support teams to handle problems related to customs procedures for imports and exports, the Ministry said.

However, some associations and enterprises said the performance of the working methods has affected the progress of goods clearance for firms.

The ministry asks governments of localities implementing social distancing under Government Directive 15 and 16 or other measures to request local agencies and Steering Committee for Covid-19 prevention and control to facilitate customs agencies when assigning officers.

Local agencies should arrange sufficient officers to clear goods in a timely and safe manner, meeting the requirements of firms manufacturing and processing components of electronic products and advanced technology products; businesses, cooperatives, and business households importing essential goods for disease prevention and treatment, medical nutritional food and milk for children (in accordance with Government Resolution 105) prevent smuggling and illegal cross-border transportation of goods at the request of Customs.

The ministry also asks local governments to create favourable conditions for customs officers in moving between localities, especially those who have been vaccinated fully.

Regarding vaccinations for Customs officers, the ministry cites the Government's Resolution 21/NQ-CP as saying the Customs authority is given priority in Covid-19 vaccination.

To ensure the resources to maintain the operation of the Customs for customs clearance of imports and exports, and to avoid disruption of the supply chain of raw materials for production, business and export of goods, the Ministry of Finance proposes local governments should balance the existing vaccine sources and urgently vaccinate customs officers.

At the same time, local governments should support the Covid-19 testing for officers performing public duties to maintain stable operations and customs management.

In addition, the Ministry of Finance also suggested the local governments direct customs and tax agencies in their area to timely remove difficulties for businesses in customs process.

The Ministry of Finance has directed local customs departments to support customs clearance for goods for Covid-19 pandemic prevention and control.