“While praising our economic cooperation, the secretary encouraged Vietnam to address trade imbalances,” she said.
Vietnam Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said at the World Economic Forum on Tuesday in Davos the country is “working on solutions” to re-balance its trade surplus with the US, reiterating a promise to buy Boeing planes and expressing an interest in purchasing other American high-tech items.
Vietnam is among the world’s most trade-dependent nations, with exports accounting for about 85% of its economy. The country had a surplus of about US$100 billion ($135 billion) with the US in 2023, making it a possible target for President Donald Trump’s policies.
“Both officials celebrated the 30th anniversary of US-Vietnam relations and the progress made under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership,” Bruce said.