Gov’t tightens diplomatic car imports

Deputy Prime Minister Vuong Dinh Hue has asked ministries to strengthen the management of temporary import of cars of individuals who enjoy privileges and tax exemptions in Viet Nam.- Photo dantri.com.vn

According to the General Department of Customs, in addition to the import of cars through commercial orders of domestic businesses, there are thousands of cars that are annually imported under privileges and exemptions by embassies, foreign diplomatic missions and international agencies or organisations operating in Viet Nam.

Hue’s request was sent out to the ministries of Foreign Affairs, Public Security and Transport.

He asked the ministries to strictly penalise the abusive action of importing cars for commercial purposes and propose amendments and supplements to current regulations to enhance State management and compliance with real requirements.

Currently, imported vehicles under privileges and exemptions are provided with a foreign number plate and are exempted from taxes and fees. These vehicles are under the management of foreign organisations and individuals in Viet Nam.

There are three groups of subjects that are allowed to temporarily import autos without incurring any fee -- diplomatic missions, consult offices and representative agencies of international organisations in Viet Nam. They enjoy privileges and exemptions in accordance with international rulings that Viet Nam is committed to.

In addition to this, diplomatic officials, administrative and technical staff members of diplomatic missions, consulars and officials of Viet Nam-based international organisations also enjoy similar privileges and immunities under international treaties which Viet Nam has signed or acceded to.

Because of such a large scale of preferences and immunity, foreign vehicles are sold or illegally transferred to individuals and organisations within the country.

According to regulations of the Ministry of Public Security and the Ministry of Transport, to ensure conditions for re-export and transfer or destruction of cars under diplomatic privileges and immunities, organisations and individuals must complete certain procedures, including the revoking of registration certificate and car licence plates.

As for the buyers, they will have to pay various taxes and fees as regulated.