The United States Trade Representative (USTR) announced on 29/5 the initiation of an investigation under Section 301 of the 1974 US Trade Act concerning Vietnam's intellectual property rights protection and enforcement.

Commenting on the development, Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Pham Thu Hang referred to Vietnam's previously stated views, efforts, and achievements in intellectual property rights protection and enforcement on 1/5 and 14/5.

The USTR's annual report, released on 30/4, assesses the global situation of intellectual property rights protection and enforcement. In this report, the US identified Vietnam as a "priority foreign country," indicating it is among the countries requiring priority attention on this issue.

On 1/5, Ms. Hang emphasized Vietnam's significant efforts in protecting intellectual property. These efforts include improving the regulatory system, raising public awareness, strengthening international cooperation with the World Intellectual Property Organization (WIPO), the US, and many other countries. Vietnam has also been resolute in combating and strictly penalizing intellectual property violations.

On 14/5, Ms. Hang highlighted that Vietnam's efforts to improve its innovation environment and to protect and enforce intellectual property rights have been recognized by WIPO. The country achieved a ranking of 44 out of 139 countries and economies in the 2025 Global Innovation Index (GII), placing it among ASEAN countries with positive results in this field.

Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson Pham Thu Hang. Photo: MFA

The spokesperson affirmed today that strengthening intellectual property rights protection and enforcement is a consistent policy of Vietnam. This policy aims to build a transparent, healthy investment and business environment, promote innovation, and fully implement international commitments.

Ms. Hang stated that the USTR's initiation of a Section 301 investigation is a procedure conducted under US law. Related issues will continue to be reviewed based on exchanges and consultations between the two sides during the investigation process.

According to Ms. Hang, the two sides have maintained close communication on this matter recently. The US side has positively acknowledged Vietnam's policies and measures.

"We are ready to continue consultations, share information, and clarify current and future policies, regulations, and measures," the Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesperson stated. "We also request that the US objectively and fairly assess Vietnam's efforts and tangible results, in a cooperative and constructive spirit, consistent with the Vietnam-US Comprehensive Strategic Partnership, and for the benefit of both peoples and businesses."

Hong Hanh