U.S.-Vietnam relations

The country’s economic response to the tariffs will be guided by its multilateral and diversified foreign policy approach.

Nine of the region's 11 nations have been hit with reciprocal tariffs that could devastate local industries – and create a strategic opening for China.

Vietnamese policymakers are hoping to preempt U.S. concerns about its lopsided trade surplus with the United States.

The Trump administration has a golden opportunity to improve its relationship with a key Southeast Asian partner.

Among ASEAN nations, Thailand and Vietnam have the two largest trade deficits with the United States. Both are readying for possible retaliatory actions.

There is no reason to believe that the bilateral relationship will not continue along its current positive trajectory.

Last month, the Trump Organization agreed to build a $1.5 billion course in Hung Yen, the home province of Communist Party chief To Lam.

The Russia-Ukraine war has rearranged the configuration of Vietnam’s web of partnerships but has not drastically changed its foreign policy approach. 

Hanoi's interpretation of its painful history with the U.S. and China reflects its desire to maintain peaceful relations with the two powers.

During the communist party chief's five-day visit to New York, Vietnamese and U.S. firms have signed a number of economic agreements.

Lam's unique status and the fortuitous timing make his upcoming trip to the United States an important moment to solidify recent progress in bilateral relations.

To Lam is expected to travel next month to New York for the U.N. General Assembly, a trip that could also include meetings with President Joe Biden and Vice-President Kamala Harris.