
Vietnam Targets 8% Growth Despite U.S. Tariffs
Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh told parliament on Monday that the government remains committed to achieving a minimum of 8% economic growth this year, despite increasing concern over the possible impact of U.S. tariffs.
In his remarks, Prime Minister Chinh emphasized that the government has been working proactively to mitigate risks tied to global trade tensions. "The government has been working closely with the negotiation team and relevant agencies to urgently finalize a plan for upcoming negotiations with the United States," he said.
The statement comes as Vietnam emerges as one of the countries the United States has agreed to engage in tariff discussions with. The negotiations follow a broader push by the U.S. to address trade imbalances and protect domestic industries, potentially placing strain on key exporting nations like Vietnam.
Despite the external challenges, Chinh expressed confidence in the nation's economic resilience and its ability to navigate uncertainties through proactive policy coordination and international engagement. He underscored that growth objectives would be met through enhanced exports, foreign investment attraction, and strategic trade relations.
The government’s plan reportedly includes coordination with ministries of industry, finance, and foreign affairs to streamline Vietnam’s stance in the upcoming discussions. The negotiations are expected to focus on tariffs impacting electronics, textiles, and agriculture—Vietnam’s primary export sectors to the U.S.
Analysts note that Vietnam’s high growth target remains ambitious in light of global market volatility and the geopolitical environment. However, the country has previously demonstrated strong post-pandemic recovery metrics and increased its share in global supply chains amid U.S.-China trade tensions.
The outcome of the U.S.-Vietnam tariff discussions will be closely monitored by investors and trading partners, as it could set a precedent for future trade dynamics in Southeast Asia.