Maritime sector focuses on administrative reform

Hanoi (VNA) – The Vietnam Maritime Administration (Vinamarine) has focused on administrative reform as part of efforts in international integration.

According to head of Vinamarine Nguyen Xuan Sang, since July 2018, the administration has expanded the national one-stop shop mechanism towards 11 administrative procedures at 25 seaports.

As from July 1, 2018, 28,171 dossiers had been approved online, accounting for 87 percent of submitted files, he said, adding that procedures for vessels have been conducted in line with the 1965 Convention on Facilitation of International Maritime Traffic (FAL65).

In many seaports, time for procedures to be carried out has been cut from six hours to only half an hour, Sang noted.

Addressing a conference last month, Minister of Transport Nguyen Van The said his ministry has been applauded by the Government for its efforts in administrative reform in 2018.

Nguyen Tuong, Deputy General Secretary of the Vietnam Logistics Business Association, said 19 percent more cargo was handled through seaports last year thanks to administrative reform.

Economists said open procedures will help increase the amount of cargo passing through seaports, ease pressure on the road system, raise State budget collection and spur development.

Phan Phung Hai, Director of Vinamarine’s chapter in the central province of Quang Tri, said his unit has transparently carried out administrative procedures, publicised hotlines and assigned tasks for leaders of relevant agencies.

Many businesses said reforms have helped them save costs on ship rental, seaport services and labour.

Regarding plans for 2019, Sang said the administration will continue to review all administrative procedures and implement coordination mechanisms with State management agencies, thus creating a favourable environment for business, people and manages in the sector.

At the same time, the administration will step up the application of information-technology and use achievements of the fourth Industrial Revolution in management, he said.-VNA