Hanoi, May 13 -- Counterfeit, substandard and intellectual property-infringing goods continue to pose growing challenges to Vietnam's business environment and consumer protection, as smuggling networks expand operations through e-commerce platforms, social media and express delivery services with increasingly sophisticated tactics.

In response, the customs sector has identified the fight against smuggling, trade fraud, counterfeit goods and intellectual property violations as a key task. Customs units nationwide have stepped up inspections and supervision of import-export activities along major routes and at key checkpoints.

According to the Customs Department, current "hotspots" are concentrated along the Vietnam-China, Vietnam-Laos an...