Religious officials and dignitaries in the southern city of Cần Thơ receive the COVID-19 vaccine. — VNA/VNS Photo

HÀ NỘI — Việt Nam has spent VNĐ45.6 trillion (nearly US$2 billion) from its budget on pandemic prevention and control as well as supporting people who face difficulties due to COVID-19, as of October 15.

The Ministry of Finance said of the amount, VNĐ22.9 trillion came from the Central budget, which was used for procuring vaccines, funding pandemic prevention and control efforts as well as assisting vulnerable people to cope with the pandemic effects.

The remaining 22.7 trillion was sourced from the local budget for the work.

As of October 15, the total budget revenue reached 83.2 per cent of the estimate, with 79.3 per cent from domestic revenues up 5.9 per cent year-on-year. Revenue from import-export hit 104.8 per cent of the estimate while that from crude oil surpassed estimate by 135.6 per cent.

The total value of taxes, land rental fees, fees and charges that were exempted, reduced or extended to support people and businesses in line with the Government’s Decree 52 was about VNĐ95.1 trillion.

Minister of Finance Hồ Đức Phớc said that despite difficulties in balancing the State budget due to the impact of the pandemic, the Government has implemented synchronous and flexible monetary solutions to ensure that debts are paid in full and on time in accordance with commitments and the assigned 2021 estimate.

He said the country has the ability to secure capital for regular spending, investment, social security policy as well as defence and security tasks. — VNS