A Government report on the draft Law on Chemical Substances presented by Minister of Industry Hoang Trung Hai emphasized the important of the law, citing a rapid increase in the use of chemicals in the industrial sector and in people’s daily lives.

Mr Hai said chemical products are increasingly diversified, but tax administration of the chemical substance in the past has created such problems as chemical spills, fires, explosions, poisoning, chronic and occupational diseases, deaths and adverse environmental impacts.

Participants were told that overlapping regulations on chemicals have also caused difficulties for businesses.

Deputies asked the Government to present more clearly the extent of chemical activities in Vietnam, reasons why the chemical industry has developed too slowly in recent years, and the role and position of the industry in the country’s industrial development strategy. They also stressed the need for provisions on the safety of the chemical industry because they have a direct bearing on human health and the environment.

Many deputies suggested the draft should have clauses defining the responsibility of grassroots authorities for managing and supervising chemical trade, production and use in their areas.

The session also discussed and approved a Government report regarding the Ba Ria-Vung Tau Gas-Electronic-Fertiliser project.

VOVNews/VNS