On May 1, Vietnam's Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Pham Thu Hang called on the United States to deliver an objective and balanced assessment of Vietnam’s progress in intellectual property (IP) protection. The statement came in response to the U.S. government's recent designation of Vietnam as a 'Priority Foreign Country' in its annual report on global intellectual property protection and enforcement.
Addressing a reporter’s inquiry regarding Vietnam’s reaction to the U.S. listing, Pham Thu Hang emphasized that Vietnam has made significant strides in safeguarding intellectual property rights. She pointed to improvements in the legal framework, increased public awareness initiatives, and strengthened international cooperation, including partnerships with the World Intellectual Property Organisation (WIPO), the United States, and other nations.
'Vietnam has also taken firm action against violations of IP rights,' Pham stated. She underscored that protecting intellectual property remains a high priority and a consistent policy for Vietnam, aimed at fostering a healthy and transparent business environment. According to the spokesperson, these efforts are integral to Vietnam’s strategy to transform its economic growth model, with science, technology, innovation, and digital transformation serving as key drivers.
Pham Thu Hang further noted that Vietnam has been actively and effectively cooperating with the United States in the area of intellectual property protection. She affirmed Vietnam’s readiness to share information and clarify its policies and regulations with U.S. counterparts.
The spokesperson expressed her belief that both countries should continue to coordinate closely to address differences appropriately. She stressed that such collaboration would benefit both nations and contribute to building a stable, balanced, and sustainable framework for economic and trade cooperation.
The U.S. 'Priority Foreign Country' designation is reserved for nations that, according to the U.S. Trade Representative, present the most significant concerns regarding IP rights protection and enforcement. Vietnam’s response highlights its ongoing commitment to addressing these concerns through legal reforms and international engagement.
Vietnam’s government has reiterated its dedication to upholding intellectual property rights as part of its broader economic development and integration strategy. Officials maintain that continued dialogue and cooperation with the United States are essential to resolving outstanding issues and fostering mutual economic growth.