US President Donald Trump has indicated that Washington may ease technology export restrictions on Vietnam following talks with the country’s top leader, To Lam, according to a statement from Vietnam’s government.
The two leaders held their first in-person meeting at the White House on Friday. During the discussions, Trump said he would direct relevant US agencies to consider removing Vietnam from a strategic export control list that limits access to advanced American technologies, Hanoi’s Government News portal reported.
The development comes as the two countries navigate shifting trade dynamics. Vietnam had been engaged in extended trade negotiations with the United States when the US Supreme Court ruled that several of Trump’s broad tariff measures were unlawful, reshaping aspects of US trade policy.
In a parallel sign of strengthening economic ties, Vietnamese airlines announced major agreements with US aerospace manufacturers this week. Sun PhuQuoc Airways placed a significant order for Boeing 787 Dreamliners, while Vietnam Airlines confirmed a large purchase of Boeing 737-8 aircraft. The deals, collectively valued at tens of billions of dollars, underscore Vietnam’s growing role as a customer for American aviation products.
Vietnam had previously been among the countries most affected by Trump’s tariff policies, reflecting its large trade surplus with the United States. However, Hanoi later secured a reduced baseline tariff arrangement with Washington after committing to expand market access for US goods.
The latest discussions on export controls suggest a potential recalibration of bilateral economic relations, particularly in high-technology sectors, as both governments seek to balance trade, investment, and strategic considerations.
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