Vietnam committed to IP protection amid US Section 301 probe

The foreign ministry's spokesperson Pham Thu Hang made the remarks in response to questions regarding Vietnam's reaction to an announcement by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) on Friday that it had launched a Section 301 probe under the U.S. Trade Act of 1974 into certain issues related to Vietnam's IP protection and enforcement.

She said Vietnam's views, efforts, and achievements in IP protection were outlined in statements issued on May 1 and May 14.

"Strengthening IP rights protection and enforcement is a consistent policy of Vietnam aimed at building a transparent and healthy investment and business environment, supporting innovation, and fully implementing international commitments," Hang said.

According to the spokeswoman, the USTR's decision to launch a Section 301 investigation is a procedure under U.S. law, and the issues raised will continue to be addressed through bilateral exchanges and consultations during the course of the investigation.

Hang noted that Vietnam and the U.S. have maintained close communication on the matter and that the U.S. side has positively acknowledged Vietnam's policy direction and the measures it has taken.

"We stand ready to continue consultations, share information, and clarify policies, regulations, and measures that have been or will be implemented," she said.

"At the same time, we hope the U.S. side will conduct an objective and fair assessment that fully recognizes Vietnam's efforts and substantive achievements in a cooperative and constructive spirit, consistent with the Vietnam-U.S. comprehensive strategic partnership and for the benefit of the people and businesses of both countries."

Section 301 authorizes the U.S. government to investigate and respond to foreign policies or practices it considers harmful to U.S. trade interests.

Earlier on April 30, the U.S. designated Vietnam a 'priority foreign country' in its annual review of IP rights protection and enforcement worldwide, a designation that triggers a Section 301 investigation.

In a statement issued the following day, Hang described IP protection as a top priority and a long-standing policy aimed at fostering a transparent business environment and supporting Vietnam's growth model transformation, with science and technology, innovation, and digital transformation serving as key drivers.

On May 14, she reiterated that Vietnam is firmly committed to taking strict action against all IP rights violations.

Hang also said Vietnam's efforts to improve its innovation ecosystem and strengthen IP protection and enforcement have been recognized by the World Intellectual Property Organization.

Vietnam ranked 44th among 139 economies in the 2025 Global Innovation Index and was among the stronger-performing ASEAN members, she noted.

She also highlighted Official Dispatch No. 38/CD-TTg issued by Prime Minister Le Minh Hung on May 5, directing relevant authorities to intensify efforts to prevent, combat, and address IP rights violations in a bid to improve enforcement effectiveness.

"The move reflects Vietnam's consistent policy of strengthening IP rights protection and enforcement in line with its sustainable development goals, while fostering a transparent and secure investment and business environment and effectively fulfilling its international commitments," Hang said in her May 14 statement.