Tien Giang Market Surveillance: Half a Decade of Innovative Reform

Over the course of five years, the Tien Giang Market Surveillance Agency has delivered dynamic and innovative reform, demonstrating a proactive approach to the management and execution of operations. Rigorously implementing inspection plans, the agency has aggressively and decisively addressed violations spanning smuggling, counterfeit production and trade, as well as the distribution of substandard and unsafe food products. These interventions have not only expedited the flow of goods, but have also served to safeguard consumer rights and cultivate a robust and healthful business environment.

Tien Giang Market Surveillance Agency has conducted various inspection programs and market surveillance initiatives

Mr. Do Van Phuoc, Deputy Director of the Tien Giang Market Surveillance Agency, elucidated on the transformative journey, stating that the reorientation of vertical operations has unleashed the local market watchdog force, bolstering its operational capacity. Under the guidance of the Vietnam Directorate of Market Surveillance (DMS) and the Tien Giang Provincial People's Committee, the seamless integration of IT applications into public services for market watchdogs at both central and local levels has paved the way for unified, streamlined and effective direction, administration, inspection, control and resolution of administrative violations. The agency has executed numerous specialized inspection programs, periodic inspections, and market surveillance initiatives. Additionally, it has organized surprise inspections that have proven instrumental in promptly identifying and addressing violations, encompassing areas such as smuggling, counterfeit production and trade, goods of uncertain origin, and infringements related to food safety.

The agency has optimized its organizational structure by reducing staff from 80 employees across 13 market management teams to 72 professionals distributed among six market management teams. Remarkably, this restructuring has not only streamlined operations but has also resulted in enhanced work performance. In 2022, a mere 6% of employees were certified with an average grade, while the majority earned accolades for good and excellent performance. In 2023, where an outstanding 47 out of 53 employees were accredited with excellent grades, an impressive feat that includes 31 individuals achieving absolute excellence.

Over the past five years, the agency has maintained market integrity with 7,476 inspections conducted, 3,737 cases effectively handled, and administrative fines exceeding VND24 billion imposed. Additionally, goods violating regulations amounting to VND2.7 billion were confiscated and destroyed. Particularly in the tumultuous petroleum market, the agency proactively directed market watchdogs to intensify inspections, successfully identifying and addressing instances of hoarding, trading in counterfeit and substandard gasoline. These actions have helped secure the petroleum supply chain and meet consumer needs.

The agency has collaborated with relevant bodies to inspect and address issues related to smuggling, counterfeiting, trade fraudulence, market manipulation and unfair competition. This collaborative effort has not only contributed to market stabilization but has also upheld the principles of fair competition, ensuring quality and safety in the market.

Tien Giang Market Surveillance Agency has spearheaded digital transformation initiatives. The issuance of regulations governing the Administrative Violations Handling System of the Market Surveillance Force (INS) showcases its commitment to efficiency. This system facilitates the prompt updating of case information, standardizes inspection and violation settlement procedures, and expedites accurate statistical reporting. The agency has invested in comprehensive in-house training programs, ensuring that all departments and teams are adept in utilizing the INS system, thereby enhancing overall quality and efficiency to meet the escalating demands of their work.

Through relentless effort, the agency has cultivated an open, transparent, and business-friendly environment. Its endeavors not only contribute to organizational growth, but also foster an atmosphere conducive to the effective development of businesses by both organizations and individuals.

Source: Vietnam Business Forum