The leader took a field trip to inspect smuggling and trade fraud prevention and control procedures in a number of key areas in the northern border province of Lang Son on December 30.
Speaking at a meeting with the Customs Department at Huu Nghi Border Gate, Deputy PM Phuc applauded intersectoral efforts made by provincial authorities in the fight against smuggling and trade fraud.
He urged relevant agencies and sectors to reinforce supervision of anti-smuggling and trade fraud measures through the border gate to boost the domestic production industry, as well as to strengthen co-ordination between neighbouring functional forces to prevent malfeasance.
The fight must be resolutely undertaken at the border, along transport roads and immediately at consumption points, particularly ahead of and during Lunar New Year, Phuc said.
He advised local authorities to deal out strict punishments to offenders and officers abetting smuggling, trade fraud and tax evasion.
