In 2023, Vietnam Customs made significant strides in international cooperation and technological advancement, marking a pivotal year in its history. The organization participated in the signing of three important cooperation documents and negotiated five additional agreements, signifying its growing role in the global customs community.
A highlight of the year was the successful hosting of the World Customs Organization (WCO) Technology Conference and Exhibition. This event, one of the largest in the history of Vietnam Trade Relations, saw the participation of approximately 1,000 delegates and technology providers from 95 countries and territories. With 95 speakers and 48 exhibition booths, the conference provided a platform for about 300 experts to showcase their latest products and technology solutions in the customs sector. The event left a lasting impression on international attendees and received high praise from the WCO.
In addition to this global event, Vietnam Customs was actively involved in regional initiatives. The organization played a key role in the completion and implementation of the ASEAN Harmonized Tariff Nomenclature (AHTN). Vietnam Customs facilitated the sharing of customs declarations and electronic quarantine certificates using the ASEAN Single Window. Additionally, they successfully launched a customs transit system for the region, involving updates to regulations, software implementation, and training programs.
Looking towards hosting the ASEAN Customs Directors General Conference in 2024, Vietnam Customs continued to foster cooperation within the bloc. The organization actively engaged with ASEM member agencies to resume customs cooperation activities post-COVID-19. Additionally, Vietnam Customs collaborated with international organizations like the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) and the International Narcotics Control Board (INCB) under the United Nations, focusing on control, anti-drug smuggling, and security and safety. The efforts and results achieved in these cooperative activities, particularly in controlling and preventing cross-border drug smuggling, garnered high appreciation from international partners and ongoing support in terms of control equipment and capacity building.
Looking forward to 2024, Vietnam Customs is set to build upon these achievements. The organization aims to enhance its professional image and effectively integrate modern and responsible practices in fulfilling international obligations and commitments. In bilateral cooperation, the focus will be on strengthening relationships with strategic partners, deepening cooperation with specific programs on customs operations, anti-smuggling investigations, trade exchanges, and e-commerce implementation. Plans include enhancing exchanges with bilateral partners like the United States, the Netherlands, the United Kingdom, France, Belgium, Germany, Japan, Korea, Australia, and maintaining close relations with China, Laos, and Cambodia Customs. Additionally, Vietnam Customs plans to expand relations with partners in the Middle East and Africa, focusing on effective cooperation and exchange of professional and intelligence information for control, security, safety, and drug prevention.
A major goal for 2024 is to successfully host the ASEAN Customs Cooperation Forum. Vietnam Customs also plans to conduct technical consultations on classification, value, origin, intellectual property, and other professional issues with specialized agencies of international organizations. Strengthening cooperation within the framework of the United Nations and other international organizations, like UNODC, INCB, and UNDP, will be crucial in the fight against smuggling and drug prevention, and in building the capacity of Vietnam Customs officials.
To further these goals, Vietnam Customs will implement seamless connections with partners for information exchange, C/O verification, and identifying customs law violations. The organization will strengthen coordination in controlling drugs, rare animals and plants, and illegal waste transport. Emphasizing the importance of international resources, Vietnam Customs will support the digital transformation process towards a smart and innovative model. Researching and adopting models and experiences in building green Customs, piloting the exchange of goods information for key commodities, and between major Vietnamese seaports and international partners, will be key steps to enhance the management and customs clearance of import-export goods.
These initiatives and plans reflect Vietnam Customs' commitment to evolving as a dynamic, modern, and effective organization in the global customs landscape.
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