Vietnam and China have reached an agreement to extend trading hours at the Huu Nghi Border Gate by two hours, now operating until 8 p.m. daily, in response to the escalating imports into Vietnam.

Following the Lunar New Year holiday in February, there has been a surge in demand for trading activities, resulting in some congestion, stated Hoang Khanh Duy, deputy head of the Management Board of Dong Dang – Lang Son Border Gate in the northern province of Lang Son.

As of March 16, approximately 1,000 trucks were queued up on the Chinese side of the Huu Nghi Border Gate, primarily transporting food ingredients, machinery, and automotive components.

Customs authorities from both nations have jointly agreed to extend trading hours by two hours starting March 17. Consequently, the following day witnessed a decrease in the backlog to 500 trucks.

Vietnam has experienced an 18% year-on-year increase in imports, amounting to $54.6 billion in the first two months. Notably, China emerged as the largest import market, accounting for $21 billion, marking a 51% rise.