Digital transformation, tightening control of the area
In late May, many container trucks were extended at the Cha Lo international border gate area to carry out import-export procedures. Traffic is bustling, making this location an important commercial "intersection" of the North Central region.
However, that bustle also leads to concerns about smuggling, trade fraud and illegal transportation of goods. In just the first 5 months of 2025, the authorities at the border gate discovered and handled 27 administrative violations and 4 cases of illegal drug transportation, seizing 10kg of marijuana and many other synthetic drugs.
Captain Nguyen Van Sy - Deputy Head of the Cha Lo International Border Guard Station said: "We maintain 24/24h inspection and control at the border gate area. Working groups are deployed to closely monitor the area and use modern equipment to thoroughly prevent smuggling, especially items of high value or affecting security and order".
In order to prevent and repel smuggling and trade fraud, Quang Binh province has invested heavily in technical infrastructure and applied modern technology in border gate management. Automatic inspection systems, camera surveillance, electronic declaration software and digital processes help shorten customs clearance time, while effectively controlling goods crossing the border.
According to Mr. Cao Xuan Hung - Deputy Head of the Cha Lo Border Gate Customs Branch, the functional units have increased coordination with the Lao customs and security forces to exchange information and proactively detect early signs of violations. Customs inspection and supervision are strictly implemented, but still ensure facilitation for genuine import-export enterprises.
In reality, thanks to the synchronous application of control solutions, the work of preventing and combating smuggling in Cha Lo has had many positive changes in recent times. Nearly 300 businesses that regularly carry out border gate procedures highly value a transparent customs environment, saving time, costs and minimizing legal risks.
Peak period in the whole province, strictly handle violations
Not only in Cha Lo, the whole province of Quang Binh is currently implementing a peak period of fighting smuggling, counterfeit goods and trade fraud under the direction of the Prime Minister. The provincial working group led by Vice Chairman of the Provincial People's Committee Phan Phong Phu has deployed many inspections and handling of production and business establishments in the area.
From May 15 to 27, the provincial authorities detected and handled 14 administrative violations, collecting more than 1.2 billion VND to the budget from fines, tax collection and confiscated sales. The main violating items are consumer goods, smuggled foods, cosmetics of unknown origin, and even counterfeit famous branded goods.
The People's Committee of Quang Binh province said that units need to coordinate closely and strictly inspect hot spots for trading goods, especially across the border. It is necessary to focus on controlling items that risk affecting people's health such as food, medicine, and cosmetics.
In addition, the province also directed to promote propaganda in the community, mobilize people to report crimes, and not assist in smuggling, trade fraud, and counterfeit goods.
