While training customs officials on risk management, it is important that risk management approach is taught in accordance with international standards, particularly those of the World Customs Organization (WCO). Using such standards will help so that the new approach is implemented consistently at border posts to the benefit of traders. In April, USAID, in cooperation with the Vietnam Customs School, organized three training courses in Danang and Quang Ninh for 100 Vietnamese customs officers (63 female and 37 male) on how to use CLiKC!, an online training portal that offers worldwide customs community a single entry point for WCO training activities. This is also a collaborative portal to share and foster customs knowledge. The training courses enabled customs officials to access on-line training modules that focus on different customs and trade facilitation aspects.

So What? With their customs knowledge enhanced through the in-class and online training, Vietnamese customs officers at the central and provincial levels will understand and implement trade facilitation regulations more effectively, thereby helping reduce time and cost to trade. This will allow Vietnamese companies to participate in global supply chains, attract foreign investment, and facilitate U.S. exports to Vietnam.