Prime Minister’s Advisory Council for Administrative Procedure Reform holds training program in Hai Phong

On 30-31 May, the Prime Minister’s Advisory Council for Administrative Procedure Reform (ACAPR) conducted a two-day training program in Hai Phong City. The event focused on researching, proposing initiatives, and summarising comments and recommendations, aiming to enhance administrative procedures in Vietnam. This training was made possible by a project funded by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

ACAPR is a high-level advisory body established to provide strategic guidance and recommendations to the Prime Minister on the reform of administrative procedures. Its goal is to simplify processes, reduce red tape, and enhance the efficiency of state management, thereby creating a more conducive environment for business and investment in Vietnam.

EuroCham Vietnam was well-represented by Vice-Chairman Minh Nguyen, who also serves as the Vice-Chair of ACAPR’s Committee 1 on mechanisms, policies, and administrative procedures reform, and Van Nguyen, Head of EuroCham’s Hanoi Office cum External Relations Manager.

The event was chaired by Ngo Hai Phan, Director General of the Administrative Procedure Control Agency (APCA). Other notable speakers included:

• Nguyen Hoai Nam, Deputy General Secretary of the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers (VASEP);
• Nguyen Minh Duc, Department of Legal Affairs at the Vietnam Chamber of Commerce and Industry (VCCI); and
• Onishi Hiroshimi of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

The event reviewed ACAPR’s activities over the first five months of 2024 and outlined the council’s focuses for the remainder of the year. EuroCham Vice-Chair Minh Nguyen presented two insightful reports during the program. The first report focused on identifying mechanisms, policies, and legal barriers, offering solutions to attract investment and promote the development of renewable energy. The second report addressed challenges within the banking sector, proposing solutions to streamline financial processes and enhance economic growth.

The discussions underscored the importance of reforming mechanisms and policies, reflecting the collective effort to improve Vietnam’s administrative procedures. These reforms are critical for creating a business-friendly environment that can attract foreign investment and support sustainable economic development.

EuroCham has been an active member of ACAPR since its inception.