HCMC — Vietnam is ready to expand market access and provide more incentives for U.S. exports, Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien said.
In talks with U.S. Senator Roger Marshall on June 11, Dien urged the U.S. to take corresponding steps to strengthen bilateral trade ties. He said Vietnam remains committed to negotiating a bilateral trade agreement based on mutual respect for sovereignty, political system, and development levels, reported the Vietnam News Agency.
Dien asked Marshall to support the negotiation process and help advance economic cooperation, particularly in sectors where the senator’s home state of Kansas is strong, such as agriculture, aviation, and biotechnology.
Marshall said he would raise the matter with President Donald Trump and relevant cabinet officials and hoped for positive progress from both countries.
On the same day, Dien met with executives from U.S. companies Nike and Walmart, both of which have substantial operations in Vietnam.
At the meeting with Nike, the minister praised the company’s long-term presence in Vietnam, which produces around half of Nike’s global footwear output and employs over 450,000 workers. He expressed concern over the potential impact of U.S. tax policies on Nike’s supply chain and American consumers. Dien suggested policy directions to support the company’s operations in Vietnam.
At a separate meeting with Walmart, Dien called on the retailer to increase procurement of high-value, environmentally friendly products from Vietnam. He proposed the company establish a strategic sourcing center in the country and work with Vietnamese suppliers to improve their technical capabilities.
On June 10, Dien met with executives from Exxon Mobil, including Vice Presidents Jennifer M. Chan and Zoe Barinaga. He urged the American multinational oil and gas corporation to proceed with the Blue Whale gas project in line with Vietnam’s regulations and a signed petroleum contract.
Exxon Mobil representatives said they would deliver positive messages about Vietnam to the White House, the U.S. Trade Representative, and the Departments of Commerce and Energy.
The meetings are part of Vietnam’s efforts to boost trade and investment ties with the U.S., particularly in energy, manufacturing, and retail.
