HCMC – Vietnam and the U.S. have held their first in-person ministerial-level trade negotiations, achieving initial results, according to the Ministry of Industry and Trade.
The meeting took place in Jeju, South Korea, following the conclusion of the 31st APEC Trade Ministerial Meeting. Vietnamese Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien, who also leads the Government’s negotiation team, met with U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer for direct talks.
This session marked the first face-to-face meeting between the two sides, following a virtual meeting on April 12. The talks were conducted in a frank and constructive manner, reflecting the commitment of both countries to advancing a stable and mutually beneficial economic relationship.
According to the ministry, the discussions were aligned with the goals of the Vietnam–U.S. Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. The two parties emphasized respect for national sovereignty, political systems, and developmental differences, in line with international law and norms.
U.S. Trade Representative Greer acknowledged Vietnam’s proactive preparation for the negotiations and expressed general agreement with Vietnam’s approach and proposals.
Both sides aim for further progress in upcoming technical-level sessions. The goal is to achieve tangible outcomes that benefit both countries’ business communities and contribute to the development of bilateral trade ties.
The ministers reached consensus on key principles, negotiation methods, and future plans, setting the stage for subsequent rounds of talks.
