Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Pham Thu Hang

Speaking in response to reporters' questions about the decision by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to initiate a Section 301 investigation into certain aspects of Viet Nam's IP protection and enforcement regime, Pham stressed that the Southeast Asian country's position and efforts on IP protection had already been outlined in statements issued on May 1 and May 14.

She noted that the Section 301 investigation is a procedure under U.S. law and said the issues raised would continue to be addressed through bilateral consultations and exchanges during the course of the investigation.

Viet Nam and the U.S. have maintained close communication on the matter, with the U.S. side acknowledging Viet Nam's policy direction and the measures it has undertaken to strengthen IP protection.

Viet Nam stands ready to continue consultations, share information, and clarify policies, regulations and measures that have been or will be implemented, she said.

At the same time, she expressed hope that the U.S. would conduct an objective and balanced assessment that fully reflects Viet Nam's efforts and tangible achievements in a cooperative and constructive spirit, in line with the Viet Nam–U.S. Comprehensive Strategic Partnership and the shared interests of businesses and people in both countries.

Section 301 of the U.S. Trade Act of 1974 authorizes the U.S. Administration to investigate and respond to foreign policies or practices deemed harmful to U.S. trade interests. On April 30, the U.S. designated Viet Nam a "priority foreign country" in its annual review of global IP protection and enforcement, automatically triggering a Section 301 investigation.

In previous statements, Pham emphasized that protecting intellectual property is a consistent policy and a key priority of Viet Nam as it seeks to build a transparent business environment and advance a growth model driven by science, technology, innovation and digital transformation.

She reiterated on May 14 that Viet Nam is committed to taking strict action against all forms of IP infringement.

Pham also highlighted international recognition of Viet Nam's progress in innovation and IP protection. According to the 2025 Global Innovation Index of the World Intellectual Property Organization, Viet Nam ranked 44th among 139 economies and remained one of ASEAN's stronger performers.

She further pointed to Official Dispatch No. 38/CD-TTg issued by Prime Minister Le Minh Hung on May 5, which directs relevant agencies to intensify efforts to prevent, combat and effectively handle IP rights violations.

"The directive demonstrates Viet Nam's consistent policy of enhancing IP protection and enforcement in support of sustainable development, while ensuring a transparent, secure and attractive environment for investment and business activities and fulfilling international commitments," Pham said./.