The Hanoi Customs Department will accelerate its use of informationtechnology (IT) in the customs process to promote transparency,simplicity, and modernity in the sector.

StrongerIT application was among key planned activities for the 2016-2020period, as set by the department at a conference on June 11.

Other tasks included implementing a mechanism for companies to enjoyspecial priority in customs procedures and security in line with theWorld Customs Organisation standards; applying the national and ASEANsingle-window mechanisms; and ensuring fair, transparent and efficienttax collection.

Over the next five years, the city’ssector will equip its staff with first-rate professional andtechnological skills to facilitate trade and tourism activities, theconference heard.

Director of the department NguyenVan Truong highlighted favourable conditions to reform and moderniseover the past decade, adding that its sub-departments were expanded tooutlying provinces such as Phu Tho, Vinh Phuc and Yen Bai, making iteasier to handle procedures.

He emphasised riskmanagement throughout the customs process, which has helped the sectorcut down the time required to deal with procedures.

The staff’s capacity and sense of responsibility have also improved substantially, he noted.-VNA