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(Chinhphu.vn) – Not only is the Customs sector digitizing individual procedures, but it is also entering a comprehensive digital transformation phase based on a centralized data system and the application of artificial intelligence, opening up a smart and transparent management method.
Completing the information technology system for implementing digital customs, addressing data bottlenecks, applying artificial intelligence ( AI ), deploying centralized customs clearance, and preparing smart border gates are gradually changing customs management methods, aiming to reduce time and costs and increase transparency in procedures.
The digital transformation of the Customs sector is being implemented with a focus on comprehensively addressing bottlenecks in human resources, operational systems, data, artificial intelligence, and infrastructure and equipment.
These are the five task groups that the Customs Department is focusing on in its 100-day plan to address bottlenecks in digital transformation . This approach shows that digital transformation is not just about investing in technology systems, but is linked to every element of the management process and operational implementation.
In this context, data has been identified as a key issue requiring focused attention. According to Mr. Tran Quoc Dinh, Deputy Head of the Standing Committee for Customs Innovation and Strategy, Customs Department, data is currently scattered across multiple systems. Therefore, the proposed solution is to build a centralized database, control access rights, and enhance data sharing within the Information Technology System for Digital Customs Implementation.
When data is connected, centralized, and effectively utilized, customs management methods are poised to shift strongly towards data-driven approaches, thereby better serving compliance assessment, risk management, and operational processing.
Along with data, artificial intelligence is being researched and tested by the Customs sector in specific operational tasks. The sector has tested chatbots to support operations and is planning to integrate AI modules for identifying product names, classifying HS codes, and analyzing images. The application of AI internally is coupled with the requirement to ensure information security and compliance with legal regulations.
The results of the AI chatbot test from February 1st to April 20th, 2026, showed that the system was trained on 278 business documents, recording 53,601 questions from 14,441 conversations, with a success rate of 99.78% and a response time of approximately 3-4 seconds. Of these, questions related to product classification and codes accounted for 60.43%.
These results provide a basis for further research and integration of AI tools into the system, serving the operational activities of the Customs agency.
In parallel with addressing existing bottlenecks, the Customs sector is developing a comprehensive Information Technology System for implementing Digital Customs. The Ministry of Finance has approved adjustments to the investment plan for the project; the system is expected to be officially operational in December 2028.
The goal is to build a comprehensive, modern, secure, safe, and stable information technology system that fully meets the requirements of state management in customs, implements paperless customs procedures, and contributes to building a digital government and digital finance.
The system will be deployed to all customs units nationwide, serving customs officials, citizens, businesses, customs declarants, vehicle owners, and related agencies and organizations. Technologies such as cloud computing, mobile applications, big data, the Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence are expected to be applied in the system.
Simultaneously, the process of digitizing records and documents continues to be accelerated. To date, the system has processed 44 types of electronic documents, contributing to reducing paperwork, time, and direct contact during the procedure.
Thus, a key point in the digital customs orientation is the shift from digitizing individual procedures to building a comprehensive management system, where data is connected, processed, and utilized to support management decisions. This forms the foundation for changing the way operations are organized and implemented throughout the entire industry.
The centralized customs clearance model aims for five objectives: centralizing business operations; unifying the application of laws and procedures; reducing time and costs for businesses; improving risk management efficiency and ensuring accurate and complete tax collection; and promoting the application of technology.
If the digital customs system provides the technological and data foundation, then centralized customs clearance is a direct test of how business processes are organized.
The centralized customs clearance model will be piloted from June 1, 2026, at the Customs Sub-department of Region III, focusing on centralized reception and inspection at a single point; the processing procedure is designed to ensure a direct flow of goods, minimizing paperwork and direct contact.
A key aspect of the model is the shift from inspections during customs clearance to enhanced post-clearance inspections. This aligns with the need for innovation in management methods, where control is more data-driven, compliance-based, and risk-based.
Initial results show that the average customs clearance time decreased by approximately 12% compared to May 2026 and 14% compared to the first quarter of 2026. The model also contributes to increased transparency, consistency, fairness, and predictability in customs procedures.
These results have direct implications for businesses, because the effectiveness of management innovation is ultimately reflected in the processing time and the ease of carrying out procedures.
Based on the pilot results, the Customs Department will continue to evaluate and refine the processes, legal framework, technology, data, and human resources, and then report to the Ministry of Finance on the roadmap for gradually expanding the model.
From centralized customs clearance, the organizational and management methods continue to be expanded to the Vietnam- China Smart Border Gate. According to Mr. Tran Quoc Dinh, the Ministry of Finance and the Customs Department are simultaneously implementing four groups of tasks to prepare the conditions for putting the model into operation.
First, the Customs sector is perfecting the legal framework and operational procedures with Decree 336/2026/ND-CP and Circular 128/2026/TT-BTC. Simultaneously, the Customs Department is coordinating with Chinese Customs to promote data sharing, gradually connecting through the National Single Window Portal, ensuring information security and safety. Infrastructure, technology, and operational plans are also being implemented synchronously, in coordination with localities and businesses to ensure connectivity and avoid duplicate investments.
It is evident that, from centralized customs clearance to smart border gates, the digital transformation of the Customs sector is not just about integrating technology into existing processes, but is gradually reorganizing management methods based on data, connectivity, and automation.
From addressing data, operational, and infrastructure bottlenecks to building IT systems for digital customs, applying AI, and expanding connectivity at border gates, management processes are being integrated in a more synchronized manner. This standardizes procedures, shortens processing times, reduces paperwork and direct contact, contributing to lower compliance costs and facilitating business operations, thereby boosting the flow of import and export goods.
DEPARTMENT OF GRASSROOT INFORMATION AND FOREIGN INFORMATION
MINISTRY OF CULTURE, SPORTS AND TOURISM
Responsible for content
Mr. Pham Anh Tuan
Head office
