At a meeting on 31/7, Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien stated that deploying department and bureau-level officials to local areas is essential to prevent disruptions in management and minimize impact on residents and businesses during the transition to the two-tiered local government model.

The two-tiered local government model (eliminating the district level) came into effect on 1/7. Under this model, the Ministry of Industry and Trade has delegated 52% of its management responsibilities in the industry and trade sectors to provincial and communal levels. However, according to Minister Dien, the newly arranged local administrative apparatus and personnel require central and ministerial support for smooth operation.

The 34 deployed officials will assess the situation on the ground, provide direct professional guidance to local authorities, promptly report any difficulties, and propose necessary material support. "The goal is to enable local officials to begin working immediately, especially during this initial phase," the minister said.

Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien speaking at the meeting on 31/7. Photo: MOIT

Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien speaking at the meeting on 31/7. Photo: MOIT

According to the Ministry of Home Affairs, after merging administrative units and implementing the two-tier model, the country will have 28 provinces and 6 centrally-controlled municipalities, along with 3,321 communes, wards, and special zones.

Minister Dien emphasized that deployed officials should dedicate time to working directly in provinces and communes, wards, and special zones facing difficulties. They are also expected to fulfill their regular responsibilities remotely to avoid workflow disruptions at their respective departments.

Along with personnel deployment, the Ministry of Industry and Trade has tasked its affiliated units with reviewing and finalizing operational guidelines and handbooks for the industry and trade sector. These resources will be widely shared for easy access by local authorities. The ministry has also established dedicated support teams to address any concerns of local officials and deployed personnel.

On 30/7, the Ministry of Industry and Trade held a conference with departments of industry and trade and market management bureaus from various provinces and cities. They agreed on a collaborative plan to support localities during the initial implementation of the new government structure. Additionally, the Ministry has established a 24/7 hotline to receive feedback and promptly address any arising difficulties from local areas.

Phuong Dung