Mobile app drives customs modernisation and transparency

Mobile app drives customs modernisation and transparency

The newly launched Vietnam Customs Data mobile app marks a significant step in digitalising import-export reports, providing real-time, visualised data to support more efficient decision-making and customs modernisation.

According to Nguyen Trung Tien, deputy director general of the National Statistics Office under the Ministry of Finance, import-export data supplied by the Department of Vietnam Customs on a daily, weekly, and monthly basis plays a vital role in national statistics and socioeconomic planning.

“In the past, statistics agencies had to repeatedly ask for customs data to analyse. Now, with the Vietnam Customs Data app, statistics are updated continuously in real time across multiple timeframes, improving efficiency in state management and policymaking,” said Tien.

Pham Duyen Phuong, deputy director of the Information Technology and Customs Statistics Division under the Department of Vietnam Customs, said the initiative stemmed from the need to replace paper-based reports with a digital solution accessible to leaders at all levels, anytime, anywhere, on any device.

The app enables government officials to detect procedural and institutional bottlenecks or anomalies in import-export data, thus facilitating timely policy adjustments.

It also helps simplify trade procedures, supporting the goal of more efficient and transparent customs operations.

Nguyen Van Tho, director general of the Department of Vietnam Customs, emphasised that the app represents a fundamental shift in how customs statistics are delivered and consumed.

The primary users are leaders and policymakers at both central and local levels, who rely on import-export data to guide administrative decisions and shape national policies.

The app features interactive dashboards with daily updates, allowing users to analyse trends in real time. It offers flexibility in user permissions and access levels, with clear account hierarchies and built-in data protection.

Initially, access credentials will be granted by customs departments, with plans to integrate accounts with the Ministry of Finance’s system and the national citizen database using electronic identification (VNeID) to ensure proper authorisation.

Available on both Android and iOS platforms, each user receives a personal account with tailored permissions, ensuring security and data confidentiality.

In addition to enhancing governance, the app promotes transparency and statistical reform, creating a more business-friendly environment for importers and exporters.

Looking ahead, the app will continue to evolve in line with macroeconomic management needs, contributing to administrative reform and the long-term goal of establishing fully paperless, digital customs operations.

Earlier, speaking at the launch ceremony of the Vietnam Customs Data mobile app on June 27 in Hanoi, Deputy Minister of Finance Bui Van Khang commended the Department of Vietnam Customs’ pioneering spirit and creativity, as well as the effective coordination of related agencies in successfully developing the app.

“The app strengthens internal management and governance within the customs and finance sectors, and promotes greater transparency, enhances the business and investment environment, and serves both enterprises and society at large.

The initiative marks a significant step towards building a digital government, enabling citizens and businesses to complete procedures more quickly and transparently,” said Khang.

Trade statistics remain crucial in calculating key indicators such as GDP, the trade balance, and for use in negotiating and monitoring free trade agreements or settling international disputes.

Previously reliant on paper-based reports, the country’s statistical reporting faced delays and storage challenges.

In line with Resolution 57 on breakthroughs in the development of science, technology, innovation, and national digital transformation, the Ministry of Finance has directed the Department of Vietnam Customs to fully digitise trade reporting via the Vietnam Customs Data mobile app, replacing traditional paper-based formats.

VIR