Vietnam has set for December this year the full implementation of the National Single Window that aims to streamline and fast-track customs procedures for companies through a one-stop customs mechanism.
The electronic administrative system is scheduled to come online by November, initially accommodating only certain customs processes such as the registration of ship arrivals and departures.
The first stage will link the program to the ministries of finance, transport, and industry and trade before it is connected to other government entities at the end of the year.
The new mechanism will authorize enterprises to file their documents online for processing, approval, and issuance of licenses by various ministries and agencies, according to local reports.
It will enable individuals and firms involved in import and export activities to submit information and standardized documents to only one address. Initially, it will be implemented on a pilot scheme for the import, export, and transit of cargo according to the country’s Customs Law.
More firms receive Customs’ priority status
Meanwhile, the country’s General Department of Customs (GDC) has given eight more companies priority enterprise status, endowing them with preferential treatment in customs procedures over other companies.
The companies are Samsung Vietnam, Minh Phu-Hau Giang Seafood Processing Company, Soc Trang Seafood Company, UMC Vietnam, Hoa Sen Group, Hoya Glass Disk Vietnam, Yazaki Haiphong Vietnam, and Sao Ta Food Company.
With their new status, the companies will enjoy a number of privileges including simplified customs procedures, quick customs clearance, reduced charges, and increased business efficiency, according to GDC.
The program is part of government’s efforts to treat enterprises as its partners rather than entitles to be administered.
Recipients of GDC’s priority status now total 24 enterprises, and six more are set to be part of the group by the end of the year. GDC is also reportedly planning to include logistics firms under the program.
Photo: cop4cbt
