HCMC – Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh has called on relevant ministries and agencies to prepare thoroughly for upcoming trade negotiations with the U.S.
Chairing the fifth meeting of the Government’s Standing Committee on the matter today, April 22, Chinh emphasized the importance of aligning negotiation content with directives from Party General Secretary To Lam, the Politburo, the Government, and the prime minister, reported the Vietnam News Agency.
The meeting focused on Vietnam’s response to the new U.S. tariff policy.
Chinh said Vietnam had taken timely and effective measures to adapt to new U.S. tariffs. These included reducing tariffs on certain American goods, resolving outstanding investment project issues in line with Vietnamese law and bilateral agreements, and increasing imports from the U.S., especially aircraft, to help lower the trade surplus with the U.S.
The prime minister stressed that Vietnam’s trade with the U.S. complements rather than competes with American interests. Vietnamese exports benefit U.S. consumers while supporting Vietnam’s economic growth. Vietnam, therefore, stands ready to enter negotiations with the U.S., he noted.
He underscored the need to maintain national interests while fostering an equitable dialogue that ensures shared benefits. Ministries were instructed to closely follow strategic guidelines and prepare comprehensive proposals for the negotiation process.
The Government’s broader aim is to facilitate balanced, sustainable trade with the U.S. without exacerbating existing issues. At the same time, Vietnam seeks to uphold international commitments and equitably manage risks.
Recognizing shifting global trade dynamics as both a challenge and an opportunity, Chinh encouraged Vietnamese firms to restructure exports, diversify markets and products, and strengthen supply chains.
He also urged greater focus on improving product quality, advancing high-tech industries, promoting green growth, and accelerating digital transformation.
To support these goals, ministries were directed to address U.S. trade concerns, streamline tax refund processes, cut administrative procedures and costs, and establish a national single-window investment portal along with an investment promotion center. These initiatives aim to attract high-tech, sustainable investors aligned with Vietnam’s development strategy, while also facilitating technology transfer and workforce training for global value chains.
