ICC urged early implementation of the ATA Carnet System in Vietnam, calling it an indispensable marketing tool to help businesses develop their exports and ensure their smooth participation in overseas trade fairs and exhibitions.

ICC Asia Director Ms Lee Ju Song told a workshop held in the Vietnamese capital earlier this month that adopting the ATA Carnet System would also help Vietnam to speed up its regional integration as well as create a more conducive business environment.

At the conclusion of the two-day workshop, the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI) and Vietnam Customs endorsed an early implementation of the ATA Carnet System in the country. However, it would be implemented in phases, starting with a Bilateral Carnet System to be put in place before the end of this year between Chinese Taipei and Vietnam. ICC is helping Vietnam to work towards an early implementation of such a system.

“Vietnam is in the process of global economic integration, and the early implementation of the ATA Carnet System will help Vietnamese entrepreneurs ride the wave of the next regional and global growth,” Ms Lee said.

The workshop, organized in collaboration with the Confederation of the Asia Pacific Chambers of Commerce and Industry (CACCI) and VCCI, was conducted by MsLee for representatives from Vietnam Customs, Vietnamese government agencies, and representatives from the business community and the media.

In his opening remarks, VCCI Vice President Pham Gia Tuc said that the workshop is a timely initiative because it provides an excellent opportunity to create awareness on the advantages and benefits of the ATA Carnet System.

In recognition of her contribution to the development of entrepreneurship in Vietnam through her work on international trade facilitation, Dr Vu Tien Loc, Chairman of VCCI, presented the organization’s medal to Ms Lee.

At a separate forum on “Entrepreneurship Developments and International Integration,” Ms Lee told participants that entrepreneurship is critical to Vietnam’s success and urged the creation of a conducive environment that will motivate Vietnamese businesses to foster strategic partnerships with their overseas counterparts. This will lead to the development of cutting edge products and trademarks which will be competitive internationally, she added.

VCCI Chairman Vu Tien Loc called on large companies to support the development of small and medium sized businesses. “Vietnamese entrepreneurs have grown,” he said. “However, they still have to work hard to be on the same level with regional and world businesses.”

At a ceremony honouring 100 outstanding national entrepreneurs, Vietnamese President Nguyen Minh Triet said his government sees businesses as creator of wealth and economic progress.