The Tan Thanh-Po Chai Border Gate in the northern province of Lang Son has been reopened, allowing cross-border trade between Vietnam and China to resume after it was suspended due the outbreak of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in China, said Nong Hai Thang deputy director of Dong Dang Economic Zone.

Trucks passing Tan Thanh-Po Chai Border Gate in the northern province of Lang Son.
— VNA Photo

Trucks transporting goods from Vietnam’s side to China must be disinfected and return on the same day. Drivers are required to wear masks and protective suits and are not allowed to leave their cabins at any time.

For the time being, only firms that can show they have contractual duties to deliver goods to China are given permission to pass the gate between 8am to 7pm (Hanoi time).

The Tan Thanh customs office has issued a warning to avoid unnecessary waste for businesses that cannot show a valid contract.

In another development, 21 trucks carrying 315 tonnes of dragon fruit passed Thanh Thuy Border Gate in northern Ha Giang Province on February 20, the first convoy permitted to cross into China since the beginning of the year.

Similar strict measures have been taken by both sides of the border to prevent the spread of the virus, according to the gate’s customs office.