News

The 40th Meeting of the ASEAN Working Group on Customs Procedures and Trade Facilitation was hosted by Viet Nam Customs successfully

Summary

In fulfillment of its obligations as an ASEAN member, from 10–12 March 2026, the 40th Meeting of the ASEAN Working Group on Customs Procedures and Trade Facilitation (CPTFWG) was held in Ha Noi, Viet Nam.

Updated on : 13-03-2026

In fulfillment of its obligations as an ASEAN member, from 10–12 March 2026, the 40th Meeting of the ASEAN Working Group on Customs Procedures and Trade Facilitation (CPTFWG) was held in Ha Noi, Viet Nam, with the participation of representatives from the customs administrations of ASEAN Member States, the ASEAN Secretariat, and Dialogue partners.

In her opening remarks, Ms. Nguyen Thi Viet Nga, representative of Viet Nam Customs, emphasized the importance of ASEAN customs cooperation in the context of evolving global trade, particularly the rapid growth of e-commerce, digital transformation, and increasing demands for transparency and efficiency in customs management. Strengthening coordination among ASEAN customs administrations is expected to contribute to a more conducive trading environment and enhance the region’s competitiveness.

During the meeting, participants exchanged views and reviewed the progress of customs cooperation initiatives under the ASEAN Strategic Plans on Customs Development. Key areas discussed included tariff classification, customs valuation, e-commerce, customs clearance procedures, customs transit, customs-business partnerships, and the Authorized Economic Operator (AEO) programme. The meeting also reviewed the implementation progress of regional customs cooperation initiatives. These initiatives are considered essential foundations for promoting trade facilitation and harmonizing customs procedures across the region.

In addition, the meeting held a consultation session with the EU–ASEAN Business Council to gather recommendations from the private sector on issues such as information transparency, voluntary compliance, and improvements to customs clearance procedures for e-commerce goods.

Viet Nam, as the host country once again reaffirms the active and responsible role of Viet Nam Customs in promoting ASEAN customs cooperation, thereby contributing to the realization of a cohesive, resilient, and sustainable ASEAN Economic Community.

(Heads of delegations attending the Meeting)

Huyền Thanh