U.S. Denies Vietnam's Bid to Shed 'Non-Market Economy' Label, Citing State Involvement

The Biden administration has declined Vietnam's request to be reclassified as a "market economy," citing extensive government intervention, which has complicated trade relations and hindered Vietnam's export ambitions to the U.S.

U.S. Maintains 'Non-Market Economy' Status for Vietnam, Impacting Trade and Diplomatic Relations

According to Bloomberg, the Biden administration declined Vietnam's request to be officially classified as a "market economy," which was a setback for the country's efforts to increase exports to its most significant market.

Since the diplomatic relations were enhanced during President Joe Biden's visit to Vietnam in September of last year, the trade-dependent Southeast Asian economy has been pressuring the administration to revisit the status.

When the United States files antidumping complaints, Vietnam is primarily targeted by the "non-market" economy label. At a time when the United States is endeavoring to fortify its relationships in the region as a counterbalance to China, a change would have served as a signal of closer ties.

“Despite Vietnam’s substantive reforms made over the past 20 years, the extensive government involvement in Vietnam’s economy distorts Vietnamese prices and costs and ultimately renders them unusable for the purpose of calculating US antidumping duties,” the US Commerce Department’s International Trade Administration said in a statement.

Vietnam's Market Status Bid Faces U.S. Rejection Amid Economic Reforms and Trade Priorities

Vietnam submitted the request to the Commerce Department in September of last year and has since directly addressed US officials, including Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen, referencing economic reforms implemented in recent years.

Vietnam, which has signed several free trade agreements, prioritizes increased US market access. Its total trade, which includes imports and exports, is approximately twice the size of its economy.

Critics contend that Vietnam's subsidized enterprises and control over prices and production pose a threat to America's manufacturing base, prompting bipartisan Congressional opposition to the proposed change in Vietnam's market status.

In 2022, the United States removed Vietnam from its monitoring list for currency manipulation, reducing the likelihood of increased tariffs. Last year, the nation committed to refraining from employing its foreign exchange policy to stimulate trade.