Politics · Vietnam Bureau
Vietnam seeks deeper EU partnership as trade ties strengthen
Six years after the EU-Vietnam Free Trade Agreement took effect, the European Union has become Vietnam's fourth-largest trading partner. Vietnamese officials are now calling for expanded cooperation across green economy initiatives and advanced materials development.
LSN Vietnam ·
Vietnam's Deputy Prime Minister has underscored the country's commitment to strengthening bilateral ties with European Union member states, citing the substantial progress achieved since the EVFTA entered into force.
The free trade agreement has positioned the EU as Vietnam's fourth-largest trading partner overall, the country's third-largest export market, and its sixth-largest import market. Vietnam, in turn, has emerged as the EU's largest trading partner within ASEAN, reflecting the depth of economic interdependence between the two regions.
Official discussions have centered on three priority areas: shaping the future of the green economy, developing new value chains, and advancing cooperation in advanced materials. These initiatives reflect both parties' commitment to sustainable economic development and technological innovation.
Vietnam and Belgium have also signaled interest in deepening practical cooperation, suggesting broader engagement across EU member states beyond the existing trade framework. Vietnamese officials view continued EU support as essential to achieving the country's development goals and regional economic objectives.