US-Vietnam Trade Talks to Accelerate Amid Looming Tariff Deadline

The United States and Vietnam are set to hold a new round of trade negotiations by mid-June, according to Vietnam’s Ministry of Industry and Trade. The talks follow Hanoi’s submission of a response to Washington’s latest trade demands, aiming to avert the reinstatement of 46% reciprocal tariffs on Vietnamese exports due to expire in early July.

Though specific dates and the location of the third round were not disclosed, the urgency is growing on both sides. Vietnamese Trade Minister Nguyen Hong Dien and U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer met in Paris this week and agreed to fast-track technical discussions ahead of the next formal negotiation round.

The U.S. has presented a tough list of trade demands, including measures to reduce Vietnam’s dependency on Chinese imports for components and materials. Hanoi confirmed it had formally responded to Washington’s requests but did not provide details of its proposals.

Vietnam reiterated its commitment to resolving outstanding issues, expressing “determination and goodwill” in reaching a mutual agreement. Officials are aiming to meet the Trump administration’s push for progress ahead of a self-imposed trade deadline in July.

The U.S. remains Vietnam’s largest export market, while Vietnam imports key industrial inputs from China. This trade structure has drawn scrutiny, prompting Hanoi to crack down on illegal transshipment and explore ways to ease non-tariff barriers.

Vietnam has also shown interest in boosting imports of American goods such as aircraft, agricultural products, and energy, although no major contracts have been finalized.

With the deadline approaching, both countries are intensifying efforts to secure a deal that would strengthen bilateral trade ties while addressing long-standing structural concerns.