The Ministry of Information, Culture, and Tourism of Laos on August 15 launched a government-run website that enables tourism operators to apply for a licence online, in an effort to make the sector more efficient.

The General Department of Taxation (GDT) reported on August 18 that it has completed the integration of additional 27 administrative procedures into the national public service portal, lifting the total number of online public services provided through the portal to 120.

Vietnam has recorded significant progress in applying cashless payment, especially in the public service field.

People who violate traffic laws will be able to pay their fines online starting from June 30.

Deputy Prime Minister Vu Dam chaired a meeting on December 12 in Hanoi to review five years of implementing Resolution 19 regarding the enhancement of the business environment and national competitiveness, as well as measures to boost its efficiency in 2019.

The US stands ready to sponsor, support and share its experience in building smart cities with Vietnam in general and Hanoi in particular, US Ambassador to Vietnam Ted Osius said.