# Vietnam Leaders Seek Dialogue with Trump to Delay Imminent Tariffs

To Lam requests a meeting with Trump to negotiate terms that benefit both countries.

Vietnam's Prime Minister, To Lam, has formally requested President Donald Trump to delay the impending imposition of a hefty 46 percent tariff on Vietnamese goods. This unprecedented rate poses a significant threat to Vietnam's economy, as well as potentially increasing prices for American consumers. The move is particularly surprising given the relatively recent warming of relations between the two nations, especially as Vietnam has emerged as a strategic trading partner and a counterbalance to Chinese manufacturing.

In a letter sent last Saturday, Lam urged the Trump administration for a 45-day delay to facilitate further negotiations. He proposed that a U.S. representative be appointed to lead discussions with Vietnam’s Deputy Prime Minister, Ho Duc Phoc, to pursue an amicable resolution swiftly. Lam had been among the first global leaders to connect with Trump following the tariff announcement, suggesting a reciprocal reduction of tariffs to zero as a potential compromise.

The Vietnamese government claims that its tariffs on U.S. goods average about 9.4%, highlighting the stark contrast with the proposed U.S. tariffs. After an introductory call described by Trump as "very productive," Lam indicated a willingness to work collaboratively, inviting Trump to meet in Washington at the end of May to finalize an agreement that could benefit both nations while promoting stability in the broader region.

Economists warn that Vietnam would suffer the most if the tariff goes into effect, estimating that approximately 5.5 percent of the country's gross domestic product could be adversely impacted. The U.S. constitutes the largest market for Vietnamese exports, accounting for nearly 30 percent of its total export economy. As such, the ramifications of the tariff could be dire, reverberating beyond Vietnam’s borders.