What To Know
- At the same time, Hanoi confirmed it will continue direct talks with Washington despite the Trump administration’s imposition of a 20% tariff on most Vietnamese exports.
- rules remain a major risk, particularly a 40% tariff on goods accused of being transshipped through Vietnam, which could hit industries dependent on Chinese components.
International Business News: Hanoi seeks wider economic ties
Vietnam’s Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh announced that the country is actively pursuing new trade agreements to cushion the blow from heavy U.S. tariffs, which threaten to undercut one-fifth of its exports. According to UN estimates, Vietnam stands as the hardest-hit nation in Southeast Asia due to these measures. The International Business News report highlights that Vietnam’s leadership considers expanding its trade network a strategic necessity rather than an optional choice.
Vietnam moves quickly to secure new trade pacts as US tariffs weigh on exports
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Pivot to new partners
To offset mounting pressure, Vietnam plans to finalize free trade agreements with Mercosur nations in Latin America and with Gulf Cooperation Council countries by year’s end. These moves are intended to diversify export markets and reduce reliance on the U.S., which remains its biggest customer but also its toughest critic. At the same time, Hanoi confirmed it will continue direct talks with Washington despite the Trump administration’s imposition of a 20% tariff on most Vietnamese exports.
Rising export figures amid uncertainty
Despite tariff concerns, Vietnam’s exports rose nearly 16% in the first nine months of 2025, reaching $325.3 billion. The government projects more than 12% export growth this year, reflecting resilience across key sectors. Yet, U.S. rules remain a major risk, particularly a 40% tariff on goods accused of being transshipped through Vietnam, which could hit industries dependent on Chinese components.
Addressing U.S. concerns
Prime Minister Chinh also directed authorities to strengthen oversight of imports that may violate copyright rules or misrepresent their origins. These have been persistent sticking points in trade relations with the U.S. Tackling them head-on could help ease negotiations and demonstrate Vietnam’s commitment to fair practices.
Looking ahead
Vietnam’s balancing act highlights the challenges of navigating between protecting its economic lifelines and adapting to an unpredictable global trade landscape. By aggressively pursuing new partnerships while keeping dialogue open with Washington, Hanoi is signaling that it intends to safeguard its growth momentum. These strategies will determine whether Vietnam can turn trade turbulence into an opportunity for greater global integration.
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