Imports and exports passing through Bac Luan II – Mong Cai International Border Gate in Quang Ninh province (Photo: VNA)

The pilot project, part of a broader strategy jointly agreed upon by both Viet Nam and China, has received consistent approval from the two sides’ central to provincial authorities.

Viettel, in coordination with Mong Cai city and relevant sectors, has devised a detailed proposal to implement the construction of a logistics centre at the Mong Cai border gate area as well as the pilot development of a smart border gate.

Upon reaching a consensus, the municipal authorities will swiftly initiate official talks with China’s Dongxing city to jointly implement the project.

Currently, Mong Cai has completed various infrastructure upgrades at Bac Luan I and Bac Luan II border gates and is trialling smart technologies such as automated control systems, QR code scanning, and facial recognition for border crossers. Customs procedures are being digitalised, with efforts to integrate data systems for seamless coordination among management agencies.

On the Chinese side, Dongxing has largely completed its smart border gate infrastructure, including automated lanes for people and vehicles, AI-based licence plate and facial recognition systems, and a “single-window, single-stop” model to streamline customs clearance.

Both sides are now in the technical integration phase, working to harmonise procedures in preparation for trial operations. The bilateral smart border gate will feature smart security control, digital document processing, and integrated traffic monitoring systems. Mong Cai and Dongxing agreed to maintain close communication, ensuring that their planning, construction, and operation are synchronised.