State budget revenue in the first two months of this year totalled nearly VND246.5 trillion (US$10.6 billion), representing a rise of 18.2 per cent over the same period last year and equivalent to 17.5 per cent of the Government’s target for the full year.

Domestic revenue was estimated at VND204.8 trillion, increasing by 19 per cent, latest updates from the Ministry of Finance revealed.

The ministry also said that budget revenue from import and export activities in January-February was up 16.8 per cent to VND51.5 trillion, adding that import-export retained growth momentum in the two-month period.

Earnings from crude oil fell 1.7 perc ent to VND8.7 trillion.

Budget spending was estimated at VND195.4 trillion in the period, or 12 per cent of the plan for the full year. The spending was up by 9.6 per cent.

The Government spent a total of VND60.3 trillion on paying debts, more than 34 per cent of which was on interest.

In January-February, nearly VND62.2 trillion worth of Government bonds were issued.

The ministry said that it would work to ensure sufficient capital for the implementation of socio-economic targets.

The ministry also asked the General Department of Taxation and the General Department of Viet Nam Customs to carry out efficient State budget collection measures, step up inspections on tax collection and enhance the management of tax debts. — VNS