On November 22, to address concerns at the Saigon Port Area I Customs Sub-Department, the Area II Customs Sub-Department held a dialogue session between customs authorities and businesses (BUs). Numerous opinions and suggestions were recorded and addressed directly during the meeting.
During the dialogue, a representative from a company specializing in aquatic feed products pointed out that recent customs clearance delays were unusually prolonged. The primary cause, they argued, was the automatic and random assignment of declarations. There were instances where customs officers, not specialized in declaration fields, requested additional documentation from BUs, further extending processing times.
Another issue raised was the requirement for BUs to submit documents online and then print declarations from photocopies, adding unnecessary time. This BU suggested that customs authorities should clearly communicate processing and clearance timelines. Additionally, they recommended assigning declarations based on officers’ specialized fields to ensure swift processing.
BU representative addressing the dialogue session |
Echoing similar concerns, a company specializing in IT and technology imports noted that assigning multiple product codes to a single officer could hinder efficiency. They proposed that automatically distributing declarations among multiple officers might also pose challenges for BUs. This BU suggested that customs officers should flag trusted, reputable importers to streamline processes, as most import partners are well-established companies with strong intellectual property compliance.
Several customs service providers mentioned that delays often led to customer complaints and increased costs. They urged customs officers to establish performance indicators for declaration processing, similar to daily KPIs, and introduce a star-rating system for service quality. This would allow BUs to provide transparent feedback on officers’ performance.
Mr. Đỗ Thế Mạnh, Head of Saigon Port Area I Customs Sub-Department, acknowledged that automatic assignment is a sector-wide policy aimed at enhancing transparency in procedures. Initially, this process may not be swift as officers require time to adapt, especially during personnel transitions and reductions. However, he encouraged BUs to promptly raise any issues for immediate resolution by customs officers and leadership.
Addressing concerns about cargo holds causing additional port costs, customs representatives explained that holds are justified. Errors in declarations, such as mismatched vehicle IDs or route discrepancies, often trigger these holds. Officers cannot overlook such discrepancies, as they would face severe penalties under regulations.
Mr. Vương Tấn Nam, Head of Operations at Area II Customs Sub-Department, acknowledged the increased workload and changes following the streamlining and merger of operations. He assured that Ho Chi Minh City customs officers have no intention of hindering BUs, as their success is integral to national development.
Mr. Nam announced the formation of a 16-member advisory team within the Area II Customs Sub-Department to provide direct consultations, address queries, and resolve BU challenges. He encouraged BUs to reach out with any concerns.
Concluding the dialogue, Mr. Tống Quốc Thịnh, Deputy Head of Area II Customs Sub-Department, attributed recent clearance delays to procedural inefficiencies and a lack of direct communication. He pledged to immediately implement automated officer assignments categorized by product groups. Former officers would be utilized to support swift declaration processing.
Mr. Thịnh also highlighted the complexity of customs procedures, which involve multiple sectors and require officers to stay updated on various regulations. The Sub-Department would focus on training and enhancing officer competencies while fostering open dialogue to promptly address BU challenges. He urged BUs to familiarize themselves with procedures, ensure accurate and detailed declarations, and comply with tax regulations.
Report and photo: Sơn Nhung
– 19:52 22/11/2025
