Jul 5, 2026
153/2026/ND-CP
OverdueDecree 153/2026/ND-CP: Redrawing Customs Operational Zones and Border Anti-Smuggling Coordination Duties
On May 14, 2026, the Government issued Decree No. 153/2026/ND-CP, amending Decree No. 01/2015/ND-CP (as previously amended by Decree No. 12/2018/ND-CP) on the specific scope of customs operational zones and the coordination responsibilities for combating smuggling and illegal cross-border transport of goods. The decree is largely technical and administrative in nature: it redefines the precise boundaries (coordinates and area) of customs operational zones at road border checkpoints, customs clearance points, dedicated cargo-transport roads, inland waterway checkpoints, and rail checkpoints.
It also updates the list of premises subject to customs supervision and control (warehouses, export-processing enterprise premises, industrial zones, economic zones, free trade zones, international financial centers, etc.) and clarifies the customs authority's lead role in combating smuggling within its operational zones, including the power to apply patrol, investigation, and verification measures and to coordinate tasks with other agencies. The entire old boundary-coordinate appendix (issued with Decree 12/2018/ND-CP) is replaced with a new appendix that specifies detailed boundaries for dozens of checkpoints across 22 border provinces and cities, including Quang Ninh, Lang Son, Cao Bang, Tuyen Quang, Lao Cai, Lai Chau, Dien Bien, Son La, Thanh Hoa, Nghe An, Ha Tinh, Quang Tri, Hue, Da Nang, Quang Ngai, Lam Dong, Gia Lai, Dak Lak, Dong Nai, Tay Ninh, Dong Thap, and An Giang.
Import-export businesses, logistics operators, bonded warehouses, and other entities operating at land border checkpoints should check the new boundary appendix to confirm the exact zone subject to customs inspection and supervision, to avoid complications during customs clearance or post-clearance audits. The decree takes effect on July 5, 2026.