Illustrative photo (Source: VNA) Nghe An (VNA) – A workshop on institutional reforms, economic integration and how to improve business competitiveness took place in central Nghe An province on June 27 for enterprises and business associations in the north central region.
It was organised by the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) in partnership with the provincial People’s Committee.
During the workshop, enterprises and business associations shared challenges they face in operation, such as limited access to land and soft loans, high land rental rates, troublesome and complicated administrative procedures.
According to a representative of Thanh Hoa Province ’s business association, many firms in the region have exerted efforts to apply new technologies and advanced quality control systems and improve the skills and professional competence for their workers.
But it also requires efforts from the government to push for institutional reforms and improve competitiveness to help enterprises enter a bigger playground, the representative said.
The Thanh Hoa business association proposed that the government should simplify land administrative procedures; forgive existing deferred interest charges on land use fee payments; and soon issue market-based minimum land price framework that ensures equity among businesses.
In addition, the participating companies suggested the government helps small- and medium-sized enterprise (SMEs) get easier access to soft loans while localities should increase dialogues with businesses and apply e-administration.
They also discussed ways to effectively implement the government’s Resolution 19-2016/NQ-CP on improving the national business climate and competitiveness and Resolution 35/NQ-CP on enterprise development by 2020.
Chairman of Nghe An provincial People’s Committee Nguyen Xuan Duong urged the enterprises to get prepared for the fierce competition when a number of free trade agreements (FTAs) take effect, adding that the provincial authorities will create all possible favourable conditions for them to develop.
VCCI President Vu Tien Loc said the chamber will send the enterprises’ feedback and proposals to related government bodies to help them resolve difficulties. More information on the FTAs will also be provided for the firms to be better prepared to take advantage of the pacts.-VNA
