Vietnam and U.S. Wrap Up Trade Talks, Next Round in June

The second round of talks between Vietnam and the United States regarding a proposed Reciprocal Trade Agreement has concluded, with both parties expressing optimism and establishing a clear plan for additional discussions scheduled for June.

As reported by the Ministry of Industry and Trade (MoIT), the meetings took place from May 19–22 in Washington D.C. and were marked by a collaborative atmosphere characterized by goodwill, transparency, and respect for both nations’ commitments and development levels.

Throughout the three-day discussions, both delegations exchanged comprehensive insights into their respective trade policies and refined significant portions of the agreement draft. They also explored a holistic strategy to tackle the key concerns of both nations, aiming to streamline the negotiation timeline.

The Vietnamese and U.S. representatives engaged in productive and candid conversations regarding major economic and trade topics. By the conclusion of the talks, they had pinpointed areas of agreement, issues needing further alignment, and key points requiring additional detailed discussion going forward.

At the end of the third day, Minister Nguyen Hong Dien, who headed Vietnam’s negotiating team, met with U.S. Ambassador and Chief Trade Representative Jamieson Greer to review the progress made and outline subsequent steps. They agreed to focus on unresolved issues in the upcoming round planned for early June 2025.

Mr. Greer commended Vietnam’s proactive approach and efforts to address U.S. concerns, expressing eagerness to engage in ongoing technical discussions, alongside ministerial dialogues, to facilitate advancement.

Minister Dien appreciated Greer’s comments and reaffirmed Vietnam’s dedication to forging a balanced and sustainable economic relationship with the United States. He supported Greer’s suggestions and directed the technical teams from both nations to continue their collaboration towards a mutually advantageous agreement that meets both sides’ expectations.

The next negotiating sessions will build on the outcomes achieved in this latest round, as both parties strive to finalize the agreement promptly.