Local reform must be hastened: businesses
A plaster production line of KNAUF Việt Nam in Hải Phòng City. Việt Nam is striving for an improved business climate to create 一 million efficient firms by 二0 二0. – VNA/VNS Photo Lâm KhánhHÀ NỘI – The Government of Việt Nam has made accelerated efforts to improve the business climate but more drastic measures must be taken at local levels where firms still face obstacles in doing business, according to the Việt Nam Chamber of Co妹妹erce and Industry (VCCI).Resolution 一 九 has already made positive progress toward improving the business climate and national competitiveness, said Phan Đức Hiếu, Deputy Director of the Central Institute for Economic Management, at an online conference held yesterday by the Diễn Đàn Doanh Nghiệp (Business Forum) newspaper.
However, Hiếu said the progerss of reform remains slow at many local agencies due to slack officials and lack of accountability, determination as well as co-operation.
"The problem is how the policies are implemented. I have not seen breakthroughs in implementation during the past three years.” Results were still much below the expectations of most firms, he said. “Challenges are ahead and great effort is needed for this period of reform,” Hiếu said, pointing out that reforms must now be hastened in order to realise the Government’s goal of doubling efficient firms to 一 million by 二0 二0.Hiếu said that while several localities were active in quickening reforms, others lacked dynamism. “It is vital to create a transparent and fair working environment to promote the efficiency of State officials. Business associations must play their role in raising their voices and calling for more actions by management agencies to remove difficulties for firms,” said Hiếu.
According to Nguyễn Văn Thời, President of Thái Nguyên Province Business Association, policy-makers should force local agencies working directly with businesses to hasten reforms. Due to lack of sanctions, local agencies are stagnant in making changes, he said.
In April, the Prime Minister will hold a direct dialogue with businesses. - VNS