U.S. tells Vietnam trade deficit 'unsustainable' and major concern during tariff talks

The United States has warned Vietnam that its \$123 billion trade deficit is “unsustainable” as both nations enter reciprocal tariff negotiations, prompting Hanoi to crack down on illicit transshipments and seek greater imports of U.S. high-tech goods.

The U.S. has warned Vietnam that its $123 billion trade deficit is “unsustainable” and urged action against illegal transshipment during ongoing tariff talks. After Washington announced a 46% reciprocal tariff on Vietnamese exports from July, Hanoi sought U.S. help to boost high-tech imports, cut its own tariffs on U.S.-bound goods, and tightened checks on Chinese rerouted products. Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh confirmed the first negotiation round, and Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang said Vietnam is pursuing a balanced, sustainable trade relationship.

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