Tesla, Samsung oppose new US tariffs on Vietnam as probe deadline nears

Tesla and Samsung have voiced opposition to the Trump administration's consideration of new tariffs on Vietnamese goods, according to submissions to the US government. The administration has set a November 29 deadline to conclude a trade probe into alleged intellectual property violations in Vietnam, which began in May. Vietnam has been designated as a priority foreign country by the US for the first time in 13 years due to persistent concerns about IP protection and enforcement.

A separate investigation into alleged excessive capacity is also ongoing. Vietnam has urged the US to conduct its investigations objectively. The US currently imposes a 12.5% tariff on Vietnamese goods, introduced in July following an investigation into alleged forced labor. Vietnam has faced 20% tariffs in the past, which were later overturned by the Supreme Court.

Major US tech companies, including Tesla and Samsung, have urged the US Trade Representative to consider the supply chain needs of American manufacturers when deciding on potential tariffs. Both companies pointed out that Vietnam produces significant components and equipment for their US operations.

Retail associations and industry groups representing footwear, apparel, and consumer goods manufacturers in Vietnam have also opposed additional tariffs. Vietnam's exports to the US increased by 42% in the first eight months of the year compared to the same period in 2025, making it the US trading partner with the largest goods surplus before China and Mexico.