Vietnam customs inspections cramp 59% of exporters, importers: survey

Trade dropped in fastest-growing ASEAN economy amid global downturn

20230224 vietnam wood export

Exports of wood and other products from Vietnam declined in 2023 as global demand fell. (Photo by Lien Hoang)

LIEN HOANG, Nikkei staff writer

HO CHI MINH CITY -- Red tape and corruption are causing headaches for exporters and importers in Vietnam, which is working with the U.S. -- a key trading partner -- to streamline customs procedures.

The Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) said on Friday that 59% of companies it surveyed reported issues with "specialized inspections," typically customs checks focused on product quality. More than 30% declined to answer a "sensitive" question on the survey about "unofficial fees," the lobby group said.

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