View of the dialogue

Mr. Onose Takahisa, Vice President and Head of the Tax and Customs Committee at JCCH, noted that businesses appreciated the excellent responses received from customs authorities regarding their concerns raised last year.

At this year’s meeting, businesses submitted five new proposals, all of which were satisfactorily addressed by the Ho Chi Minh City Customs Department.

“I would like to extend my deepest gratitude to the staff of the Ho Chi Minh City Tax Department and the Customs Department for their continued support and cooperation with JCCH and the Japanese business community in the city,” Mr. Onose emphasized.

Mr. Nozaki Takao, President of JCCH, highlighted that from April 2024, JCCH welcomed 56 new member companies, bringing the total number of JCCH members in Vietnam to 1,078 enterprises. This solidifies JCCH’s position as the third-largest Japanese Business Association globally, following Shanghai and Bangkok. Among these, 727 enterprises, accounting for approximately 70%, are based in Ho Chi Minh City.

Vice Chairman of Ho Chi Minh City People's Committee Vo Van Hoan talks with businesses

In addition to customs-related concerns, this year’s meeting covered 13 proposals from Japanese businesses spanning four key areas: legal and labor issues, tax policies, living environment improvements, investment conditions

Relevant municipal departments actively responded to the concerns, resolving most issues. However, a few remaining matters will continue to be addressed by the responsible agencies.

Japanese businesses also raised issues such as streamlining entry-exit procedures and reducing congestion during immigration processes; enhancing trade connections between Vietnamese and Japanese enterprises in HCMC; collaborating on implementing ESG criteria (Environmental, Social, and Governance) to promote sustainability and social responsibility among businesses.

Regarding VAT refund concerns, JCCH acknowledged the complexity of certain cases, which may require extended time for resolution. Despite these challenges, JCCH expressed deep appreciation for the proactive and diligent efforts of the HCMC Tax Department staff in assisting businesses with the necessary documents and procedures.

Vo Van Hoan, Vice Chairman of the HCMC People’s Committee, reaffirmed the city’s commitment to supporting businesses and addressing challenges to provide a more equitable, transparent, and business-friendly environment.

“At today’s meeting and beyond, the city is committed to listening to and resolving your concerns about the investment and business environment. Issues within our authority will be addressed promptly, and for those beyond our scope, we will escalate them to the appropriate authorities for swift resolution,” Mr. Hoan assured attendees.