Vietnam has expressed regret over the United States' decision to impose a 46% retaliatory tariff on Vietnamese exports and affirmed its commitment to continued cooperation in seeking solutions to promote stable economic relations.

Speaking at a press briefing this morning in response to questions about Vietnam’s position regarding the newly announced U.S. tariffs, Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang stated: “Vietnam deeply regrets the U.S. decision. We believe this move does not reflect the mutually beneficial economic and trade cooperation between the two countries, nor does it align with the spirit of the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership for peace, stability, cooperation, and development. If implemented, the decision would negatively impact bilateral trade relations and the interests of both nations’ citizens and businesses,” Hang emphasized.

Hang added that Vietnam has actively engaged in discussions with the U.S. to address outstanding trade issues and foster economic cooperation based on fairness, sustainability, and mutual benefit.

“Vietnam will continue to coordinate and exchange views with the U.S. in a constructive and cooperative spirit to identify practical solutions that support the stable, long-term development of bilateral economic ties and meet the interests of both peoples and business communities,” she stated.

Background: One of the highest tariffs imposed

On April 2, U.S. President Donald Trump announced sweeping new import tariffs targeting more than 180 trade partners. Roughly half of these economies will face a 10% standard tariff, effective from April 5. However, major trading partners - including Vietnam - will face much steeper tariffs, up to 50%, beginning April 9.

Vietnam has been hit with a 46% tariff - placing it among the countries subject to the highest rates alongside China, Cambodia, Indonesia, and Myanmar.

In immediate response to the announcement, on April 3, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh convened an emergency meeting and ordered the formation of a rapid-response task force to develop proactive countermeasures to the U.S. tariff decision.

“Vietnam hopes the United States will adopt a policy more reflective of the strong and growing relationship between our two countries,” the Prime Minister emphasized, noting that Vietnam is still recovering from the long-lasting consequences of war and remains a developing nation.

Diplomatic outreach continues

On the same day, Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien submitted an official diplomatic note requesting the U.S. to temporarily suspend the tariff decision.

The Ministry of Industry and Trade is currently arranging a phone call between the two trade ministers, as well as technical-level discussions with the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative, in hopes of finding a mutually beneficial resolution in the shortest possible time.

Tran Thuong