Vietnam and the US conclude a third round of tariff negotiations

Vietnam and the US conclude a third round of tariff negotiations

Vietnam and the United States conducted a third round of tariff negotiations in Washington, D.C., from June 9 to 12, in which the two sides made significant progress and narrowed the gap in all areas of negotiation.

During four days, the Vietnamese and American delegations held candid and constructive discussions on issues of mutual concern. The two sides also took time to listen to each other’s analyses and explanations towards mutually acceptable solutions, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trade.

Vietnam and the US agreed to hold a virtual meeting in the upcoming days to address unresolved issues and prepare for the virtual ministerial dialogue between US Secretary of Commerce Howard Lutnick and Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien.

In the final session of technical-level negotiations on June 12, Minister Dien held a negotiation session with Secretary Howard Lutnick and United States Trade Representative (USTR) Ambassador Jamieson Greer. For the first time, the US had initiated a ministerial-level dialogue in this format.

At the session, Minister Dien proposed some ideas to advance the negotiation progress and reach results. Meanwhile, Secretary Lutnick and Ambassador Greer appreciated Vietnam's goodwill and efforts during the negotiation and basically agreed with the ideas put forward by Minister Dien. This is considered an important foundation for the two sides to continue discussions to achieve the bilateral agreement on trade.

Following the joint meeting with Secretary Lutnick and Ambassador Greer, Minister Dien had a direct discussion with Secretary Lutnick to clarify issues brought up during the plenary session.

Lutnick stated that the US values its relationship with Vietnam and hopes that the country will continue to prosper. He acknowledged Vietnam's suggestions and concerns and would coordinate with the USTR to find appropriate solutions.

Simultaneously, both sides agreed to assign technical teams to enhance exchanges and work towards an agreement that aligns with the expectations and conditions of each side.

VIR