Vietnam Directs Faster Customs Clearance for Agricultural Exports, Including Durian

In a directive issued on Thursday, the General Department of Customs requested regional customs sub-departments to provide maximum facilitation and ensure same-day customs clearance for exported agricultural, forestry, and fishery products, including durian. The instruction also mandates assigning officers to process customs procedures and supervise export shipments during evenings, weekends, and public holidays. Sub-departments are required to promptly resolve any issues arising during export customs clearance and report matters beyond their authority to the department for guidance. They must also coordinate with warehouse and storage operators at border gates to arrange appropriate facilities for goods awaiting export, helping preserve product quality. Furthermore, customs authorities are instructed to regularly monitor export progress in their jurisdictions, provide timely information and recommendations to exporters, and coordinate with relevant authorities to prevent congestion that could disrupt clearance. Regular communication with Chinese customs authorities at corresponding border gates is crucial to promptly address issues and keep Vietnamese exporters informed of any changes to China's customs policies. For consignments denied entry into China after exiting Vietnam, customs authorities are directed to prioritize and expedite re-import procedures upon enterprise request. The department strictly prohibited any acts of obstruction, harassment, or unnecessary delays in customs clearance, which could increase costs and cause losses for businesses. This move reflects Vietnam's efforts to bolster its export economy, particularly in agricultural sectors heavily reliant on the Chinese market. Under its one-party system, government directives tend to be implemented swiftly, though their effectiveness will depend on on-the-ground execution and reciprocal measures from Chinese authorities.