Vietnam Ready to Negotiate Zero Tariffs with U.S., General Secretary Tô Lâm Tells President Trump
Hanoi, The Gulf Observer: Party General Secretary Tô Lâm of Vietnam affirmed the country’s readiness to negotiate a reduction of import tariffs on American goods to zero percent, during a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump held on Friday.
In their conversation, both leaders reiterated their strong commitment to further advancing the Vietnam–U.S. comprehensive partnership, emphasizing the mutual benefits of deepened cooperation and its contribution to regional and global peace, stability, and sustainable development.
The two leaders noted with satisfaction the significant progress made in bilateral relations, highlighting achievements across multiple fields, including trade, investment, education, security, and people-to-people ties.
On trade relations, General Secretary Tô Lâm emphasized Vietnam’s willingness to engage in negotiations aimed at eliminating tariffs on U.S. exports to the Vietnamese market. He also called on the United States to reciprocate by removing tariffs on Vietnamese exports, thus ensuring a more balanced and mutually beneficial trade relationship.
General Secretary Tô Lâm reaffirmed Vietnam’s commitment to increasing imports from the United States and pledged to create favorable conditions for American companies seeking to expand investment and operations in Vietnam.
Both leaders agreed to maintain active discussions with the objective of signing a formal agreement to institutionalize the commitments discussed and strengthen long-term economic ties.
On this occasion, General Secretary Tô Lâm extended a cordial invitation to President Trump and the First Lady to visit Vietnam at their earliest convenience. President Trump graciously accepted the invitation and expressed his desire to meet with General Secretary Tô Lâm soon. He also conveyed his warmest regards to the leadership and people of Vietnam.
The high-level dialogue came just two days after President Trump announced a new round of reciprocal tariffs affecting several U.S. trading partners, including Vietnam, which is facing a substantial 46 percent tariff on certain exports.
Vietnamese authorities have expressed concern that such measures run counter to the spirit of constructive and cooperative bilateral ties. Nonetheless, they have reaffirmed their readiness to engage in dialogue with the U.S. to reach a fair and balanced resolution.
