Vietnam's leader, To Lam, has requested President Trump delay imposing tariffs for at least 45 days to negotiate and avoid harming Vietnam's economy and raising prices for American consumers. The proposed 46% tariff is among the highest any country faces, presenting a sharp contrast to Washington's recent support for Vietnam as a counterbalance to China.
In a letter dated Saturday, Mr. Lam proposed appointing a U.S. representative to negotiate with Vietnamese Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc. Mr. Lam also suggested a meeting with President Trump in Washington at the end of May to reach an agreement beneficial to both nations.
Vietnam's Foreign Ministry did not comment. Economists warn Vietnam would be the hardest-hit Asian economy if tariffs are imposed as planned, with 5.5% of its GDP at risk due to the United States being Vietnam's largest export market.
— new from The New York Times