Vietnam Surprised by Trump Tariff Decision, Seeks Lower Rate

Vietnam has expressed surprise and concern over the latest U.S. decision to impose new tariffs under the Trump administration’s revived protectionist stance. The Vietnamese government has formally requested Washington to reconsider the severity of the measures and opt for a lower tariff rate.

ECONOMICS

7/11/20251 min read

The tariff announcement, which reportedly affects a range of Vietnamese exports including textiles, electronics, and machinery, caught many Southeast Asian trade officials off guard. “We were not expecting such an abrupt escalation,” a senior Vietnamese trade official said. “Our government is currently engaging in diplomatic channels to seek clarification and reduction of the rate.”

Vietnam, which has seen a significant increase in exports to the U.S. in recent years due to shifting supply chains away from China, is now at risk of becoming collateral damage in Washington’s broader trade strategy. Analysts warn that the move could strain one of the most rapidly growing trade relationships in the region.

The U.S. Trade Representative’s office has yet to comment on Vietnam’s appeal. Meanwhile, Vietnamese businesses are urging their government to expedite negotiations to prevent economic fallout. The tariff is expected to come into effect within 30 days unless revisions are made.