Vietnam continues to boost US imports, urges balanced approach in tariff talks

Son made the remarks during a meeting with U.S. Ambassador to Vietnam Marc E. Knapper in Hanoi on Thursday, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported.

He highlighted Vietnam’s intention to maintain strong momentum in bilateral relations, including high-level visits and exchanges, under the comprehensive strategic partnership.

Son reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to deepening cooperation in science and technology, high-quality human resource training, energy, and semiconductors, while continuing collaboration on post-war legacy issues and confidence-building efforts.

He said that Vietnam would increase imports of U.S. goods such as aircraft and semiconductors and continue to create favorable conditions for American businesses to operate efficiently and sustainably in the Southeast Asian country.

Regarding ongoing negotiations on reciprocal tariffs, Son praised the close coordination between the two sides and urged the U.S. to take Vietnam’s economic characteristics into account during the negotiation process.

Ambassador Knapper commended Vietnam for its constructive and cooperative approach, stressing Washington’s intention to conclude the talks soon and implement a reciprocal tariff agreement for mutual benefit.

On August 1, the U.S. administration revised reciprocal tariff rates for 69 countries and territories, cutting Vietnam’s rate to 20 percent from the 46 percent announced in early April, which had been suspended for 90 days pending negotiations.

Ambassador Knapper also noted that 2025 marks the 30th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Vietnam and the United States.

He said the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi is working closely with Vietnamese ministries and local governments to organize commemorative events that will strengthen cooperation between the two nations.

Knapper reaffirmed the U.S. commitment to supporting a strong, independent, and prosperous Vietnam, saying the embassy will continue collaborating with the Vietnamese foreign ministry and other agencies to deepen the comprehensive strategic partnership for peace, stability, and development in the region and beyond.