Tran Thanh Hai, Deputy Head of the MoIT’s Import-Export Department made the statement at a regular press briefing in Hanoi on April 7 amidst growing concerns about watermelon stockpiling at the Tan Thanh Border Gate in Lang Son.

Thousands of trucks carrying watermelon have been lined up on the road to the Tan Thanh border gate, waiting for customs procedure clearance to China. Dealers complain about administrative procedures and they fear watermelons will spoil before they get the permit. 

The MoIT is working closely with the Chinese Embassy and Guangxi province to address farmer concerns to find satisfactory solutions to all matters hindering border trade, Hai said.

One of the measures that has already been implemented to speed up the shipment of watermelons to China is an extension of the working hours for border personnel until 9-10pm and other preparatory measures are under consideration and should be given effect, Hai said.

The MoIT suggested localities should devise improved measures to regulate the volume of exported agricultural products to China. As an example, Chinese traders only purchase first and second grade watermelon while the remaining lesser grades have to be returned back or thrown away.