On April 21, the U.S. Department of Commerce announced it would impose steep tariffs on solar panels imported from four Southeast Asian nations, including Vietnam. The average tariff rate for Vietnamese manufacturers is reported at 395.9%, with four companies facing rates as high as 800%.

At a press briefing held on April 24, Foreign Ministry spokesperson Pham Thu Hang stated, “Vietnam is ready to exchange views with relevant U.S. authorities to resolve outstanding concerns, ensuring an objective, fair, and internationally consistent review of the case. This approach aims to foster bilateral economic, trade, and investment cooperation.”

She added, “We are committed to promoting transparent and fair trade practices, while protecting the legitimate interests of enterprises operating in Vietnam.”

Just three days ago, the U.S. finalized new anti-dumping and countervailing duties on solar panels imported from Malaysia, Cambodia, Thailand, and Vietnam.

According to the ruling, Jinko Solar’s products from Malaysia face the lowest tariff in the group, at 41.56%. Trina Solar, operating out of Thailand, is subject to a 375.19% tariff. Vietnamese-made products will be taxed between 58% and 271%, while solar panels from Cambodia will be subject to an astronomical rate of over 3,500%.

These new tariffs are in addition to the existing 10% base tariff imposed under former President Trump, which has been in place since early April on most imports from key trading partners.

If enacted, these duties are expected to significantly disrupt the global clean energy supply chain and further escalate trade tensions between the U.S., China, and Southeast Asian nations.

Phuong Anh & Diep Anh