The Lao Ministry of Industry and Commerce (MOIC) is taking steps to improve the import-export process at land ports across the country.
In a meeting with key stakeholders, the MOIC identified some critical issues at the land ports, including alleged corruption and difficult crossing procedures, the Vientiane Times reported.
The Ministry of Industry and Commerce has been collaborating with the Ministry of Public Works and Transport to conduct a research study on the import-export process at three undisclosed land ports as part of a long-term restructuring project.
The preparation works and the recent meeting resulted in the proposal of a three-phase solution.
In the short term, by the end of 2023, the Ministry aims to address the fee-collecting structure and review the crossing management system.
In the mid-term, by mid-2024, the Ministry will revise related decrees and establish unified principles.
In the long term, by the end of 2024, the Ministry will focus on creating suitable management conditions and connecting with foreign trade parties to improve bilateral and trilateral transport agreements.
To ensure the prompt resolution of the issues, the MOIC directed the relevant sectors to investigate and address the challenges as they arise. The improved efficiency of ports will benefit the business sector and the Lao economy as a whole.
Customs officials from Laos, China, and Thailand also held a three-day meeting in Vientiane Capital in September to discuss streamlining customs procedures at border crossings along the Kunming-Bangkok Highway and the Lancang-Mekong River.
