Vietnam Trade Surges Despite U.S. Tariff Threat

Vietnam’s imports from China and exports to the US hit post-pandemic records in April, even as Hanoi faces possible 46% tariffs on shipments to the US, Reuters’ Francesco Guarascio, Phuong Nguyen and Khanh Vu reported.

Vietnam’s surplus with the US grew nearly 25% in the first four months of 2025. I Photo: GEMALINK INT’L PORT

The surge complicates Vietnam’s efforts to negotiate with Washington over its growing trade surplus and avoid punitive measures. The Trump administration has demanded action to curb transshipment of Chinese goods labeled “Made in Vietnam” to bypass tariffs.

However, US-bound exports rose 34% year-on-year to over $12 billion in April.

Meanwhile, Vietnam’s surplus with the US grew nearly 25% in the first four months of 2025. Industry leaders warn the looming tariff decision in July could hit multinationals like Samsung and Nike that rely on Vietnam for manufacturing.