Customs agencies should accelerate digital transformation in a smart way, Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang said at the World Customs Organization (WCO) Technology Conference and Exhibition in Hanoi from October 10-12.

He emphasized the important role of customs in developing the economy, facilitating trade, and strengthening countries' competitiveness, highlighting that the event helps Vietnam show its determination to accelerate digital transformation and the application of modern technology for e-government.

"As a major international event of the WCO, the Technology Conference and Exhibition is the biggest international event for Vietnam Customs. It is held at a very meaningful time for Vietnam, as the opening day of the conference coincides with Vietnam's Digital Transformation Day [October 10], sending a message to the world about the country's digital transformation program," Quang said.

He added that Vietnam hopes to continue to receive support from the WCO and its member countries in the form of technical assistance in digital transformation as well as human resources training.

Deputy Prime Minister Tran Luu Quang (second from right) visits the WCO Technology Exhibition. Photo: Vietnam Customs

At the event, WCO Secretary-General Kunio Mikuriya appreciated Vietnam's strong trade development and its efforts to become a rising star in world trade.

He commended Vietnam for the application of IT in customs procedures, stressing that the development of human resources capable of mastering advanced technologies is key to accelerating the digital transformation of the sector.

Kunio Mikuriya affirmed that the WCO is always willing to support Vietnam Customs and this conference is proof of that. To build and nurture the next generation of customs officers, their leaders must be steadfast in their goals and pass the fire to future customs generations.

Under the theme "Embracing the Digital Age: Leveraging Technology, Fostering Innovation, and Nurturing the Next Generation of Customs Professionals," the two-day event brought together leaders and experts from international organizations, national customs organizations, and multinational companies that provide customs technology solutions.

The event also featured 50 booths showcasing new customs technologies, including technology solutions for customs enforcement, revenue collection, anti-smuggling and trade fraud, and the application of artificial intelligence in trade modernization.

According to Nguyen Van Can, Director General of the General Department of Vietnam Customs, the conference is an opportunity for Vietnam Customs to enhance cooperation with customs agencies of other countries, international organizations, and leading technology companies.

"The experiences and solutions shared at the conference will help Vietnam Customs set appropriate directions for digital and smart customs," Can said.

He added that the exhibition will help businesses understand more about customs operations and grasp technology solutions applied in customs and international trade. Through this, enterprises can actively cooperate with the Customs in trade facilitation.