Customs, Businesses Work Together to Promote Legal Compliance

Recently, in Thanh Hoa, Customs Sub-Department of Region X held a signing ceremony for a memorandum of understanding and awarded certificates to 12 companies participating in the 2025 Voluntary Customs Compliance Incentive Program.

Duong Minh Duc, Head of Customs Sub-Department of Region X, emphasized that the collaboration and engagement of businesses are key factors for the program’s effective implementation, with the ultimate goal of building a transparent, fair, and sustainable business environment.

According to Duong Minh Duc, participating in the program allows businesses to receive preferential treatment during customs procedures. At the same time, it provides customs authorities with a stronger basis for risk management, reducing the frequency of physical inspections and shortening clearance times.

Representing the business sector, Lo Huai Sung, Deputy General Director of Alena Vietnam Footwear Co., Ltd., said that signing onto the program demonstrates long-term trust and cooperation between businesses and customs authorities. “We view legal compliance as a core criterion for sustainable development, while also enhancing our competitiveness in international markets,” he said.

After two years of implementation, the Voluntary Customs Compliance Incentive Program has produced clear positive outcomes. Businesses have improved their legal awareness and taken proactive control of internal processes, while customs authorities can focus resources on high-risk areas.

The frequency of physical inspections at participating companies has decreased significantly, clearance times have been shortened, and logistics costs have been reduced, contributing to stronger national competitiveness. In parallel, customs authorities regularly organize dialogues, provide consultations, issue risk warnings, and offer compliance guidance, helping businesses proactively prevent violations and maintain stable compliance levels.

By Thanh Nam, Vietnam Business Forum