Despite the near elimination of intra-ASEAN tariffs, non-tariff barriers (NTBs) continue to hinder Vietnamese goods from accessing regional markets, experts said at a workshop in Hà Nội on June 27. Organised by Vietnam Investment Review and the New Zealand Embassy, the event emphasized that NTBs—such as complex sanitary and phytosanitary (SPS) measures and technical barriers to trade (TBT)—raise costs, prolong customs procedures, and add risks, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises. NTBs can increase the cost of goods by 2–4%, and reducing them by even 10% could boost ASEAN trade by 3–4%, equivalent to tens of billions of dollars. Business leaders cited challenges such as fragmented infrastructure, inconsistent regulations, and cultural differences. For example, products approved in one ASEAN country may face new hurdles elsewhere due to labelling or certification issues. Industries like seafood face stringent SPS requirements, placing pressure on exporters. To address this, Vietnamese associations like VASEP support businesses through policy advocacy and training. The workshop highlighted the need for transparency, harmonisation of standards, and better digital procedures to unlock ASEAN’s trade potential and strengthen regional competitiveness. (ICE HO CHI MINH CITY)

Fonte notizia: Vietnam News