The United States’ 20% countervailing tax on Vietnamese imports is a significant challenge but also a key test for businesses to restructure their market strategies and boost competitiveness. With adequate preparation and local government support, companies can maintain their foothold in the U.S. and expand into new markets.

The Vinh Long Department of Industry and Trade reported that the 20% U.S. tariff officially took effect on August 7, directly impacting Vietnam’s major export industries, including several that Vinh Long-based companies are involved in.

The new tariff raises the price of Vietnamese goods in the U.S., reducing their competitiveness compared to untaxed or lower-taxed rivals. The U.S. is also introducing stricter rules on verifying product origin. Goods with low domestic content could face tariffs as high as 40%. The U.S. has not yet specified how it defines "transshipped" goods, which may lead to customs delays, higher warehousing costs, and potential penalties.

In September, Vinh Long's export turnover was estimated at over USD 293 million, down more than 2.5% from the previous month but up over 28% year-on-year. For the first nine months of 2025, the province's exports totaled approximately USD 2.7 billion, an increase of over 18% compared to the same period last year.

The U.S. is Vinh Long’s top export destination, accounting for about 32% of total export revenue, followed by Japan, China, and the European Union. As such, the 20% countervailing tax directly affects roughly one-third of the province's export value. Key products impacted include agricultural produce, seafood, fruit, textiles, and handicrafts.

Nationally, Vietnam's exports to the U.S. in August declined slightly by 2% compared to July, yet still rose by more than 18% year-on-year. This indicates that Vietnamese goods continue to have a solid foothold in the U.S., though their long-term prospects will depend on how well businesses adapt.

The Vinh Long Department of Industry and Trade has urged the central government to quickly implement support mechanisms and policies to help businesses seek new markets and diversify their exports.

Authorities are also advising companies to improve transparency, develop traceability systems, renegotiate contracts to share risks, diversify export destinations, and take full advantage of modern free trade agreements.

The U.S. tariff presents a strategic test for Vietnamese companies to restructure their export strategies, enhance competitiveness, and improve origin traceability. With proper preparation and support from local authorities, Vietnamese exporters can retain their position in the U.S. market and gradually expand to new potential markets.

One of the Mekong Delta’s key exports is pangasius (tra fish). In the first eight months of 2025, exports of pangasius to the U.S. reached USD 234 million, up 3.7% year-on-year. The total export value for the first eight months surpassed USD 1.4 billion, up 10%, reflecting relative stability. Although growth has been modest, the U.S. remains one of the most critical markets due to its high value, stringent standards, and global influence.

According to the Vietnam Association of Seafood Exporters and Producers, maintaining growth amid high tariffs and complex technical barriers shows that Vietnamese pangasius is solidifying its position in the mid-to-high-end market segment. This serves as further motivation for companies to continue standardization efforts and build stronger brands in the U.S. market.

Tien Phong