Vietnam Restates Readiness for ‘Constructive’ US Trade Talks

Vietnam's Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Van Thang emphasized to US Trade Representative Jameson Greer the country's openness to constructive trade talks, as reported on the Vietnamese government's website. Thang's visit to Washington aimed to strengthen commerce between the two nations and encourage US investment in trade-dependent Vietnam.

The meeting came as both sides strive to finalize a tariff deal, following a framework agreement in October. Greer indicated the US' desire to swiftly conclude negotiations on the reciprocal trade agreement. US officials have been conducting three Section 301 investigations into Vietnam's trade practices, which have been delayed by issues such as transshipment and non-tariff barriers.

The US administration has singled out Vietnam for failing to combat online piracy and counterfeit goods, as well as for inadequate border controls. The investigation's results, expected in November, could result in increased tariffs. Vietnam had the largest trade deficit with the US in the first half of 2026, amounting to $114 billion, surpassing China, Mexico, and Taiwan.

The nation's imports from China have also increased due to manufacturers boosting production of export-oriented goods, including electronic products for American consumers. Thang also met with representatives from companies like Qualcomm Inc., Visa Inc., Axon Enterprise Inc., and Caterpillar Inc. to attract more investments to Vietnam.