The Japan-funded Vietnam Automated Cargo and Port Consolidated System and the Vietnam Customs Information System (VNACCS/VCIS) will officially operate from April 1, the Party's Nhan Dan online newspaper reported.

It cited the General Department of Customs as saying that the operation of the systems is a significant breakthrough for the sector in creating favourable conditions for export and import activities.

While it takes 6-15 minutes for the current e-customs procedure to check and complete customs clearance for each consignment, the application of the VNACCS/VCIS will help reduce the process to a few seconds.

Japan granted 33 million USD for the VNACCS/VCIS to help Vietnam build an electronic customs clearance procedure (e-customs) system and implement a one-stop customs system.

The move aims to assist and promote bilateral trade between Vietnam and Japan, and create better conditions for foreign investors as well as developing e-customs and implement a one-stop customs system that links Vietnam with other ASEAN countries.-VNA