USTR's decision to impose new tariff does not fully reflect Viet Nam's reality and efforts

Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Pham Thu Hang made the above statement on Saturday in response to the USTR's announcement of new tariff rates on imports from 60 investigated economies.

The Spokesperson said Viet Nam will continue exchanges with the U.S. under constructive and cooperative spirit so that the U.S. would adjust the tariff rate in accordance with the reality and efforts in law making and enforcement in Viet Nam.

Viet Nam strictly prohibits all forms of forced labor, seriously abides by the regulations of the International Labor Organization, international treaties and free trade agreements to which Viet Nam is a signatory, Pham said.

On July 22, 2026, the Government of Viet Nam promulgated Decree No. 292/2026/ND-CP, which covers provisions on prohibition on the importation of goods produced with forced labor, she added.

The Decree specifies goods prohibited from export, including weapons, ammunition, explosives, round timber and sawn timber of all kinds from domestic natural forests, rough diamonds prohibited from export under the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme, electronic cigarettes, and heated tobacco products.

Goods prohibited from import shall include weapons, ammunition, explosives; fireworks and pyrotechnics of all kinds (excluding maritime safety signal flares used in accordance with the guidance of the Ministry of Construction), sky lanterns, and speed camera jamming devices; electronic cigarettes, heated tobacco products; used consumer goods; used vehicles (including the following categories: a) Textiles, garments, footwear, and apparel; b) Electronic goods, refrigeration equipment, and household electrical appliances; c) Interior decorations; d) Household utensils made of ceramics, porcelain, glass, metal, plastic, synthetic materials, and other materials; dd) Bicycles, motorcycles, and mopeds); used medical devices; goods that are used digital technology products.

Notably, the Decree strictly prohibits the importation of products and goods mined, produced, or manufactured wholly or in part by forced labor from enterprises, countries, or territories in accordance with relevant international treaties to which the Socialist Republic of Viet Nam is a contracting party./.