The growing number and complexity of these cases are forcing businesses to invest more heavily in compliance systems, legal capacity, and transparent sourcing to maintain access to key export markets.

Trade defence cases become more complex

Trade investigations are no longer limited to traditional anti-dumping measures. Many countries are expanding enforcement into new areas such as cross-border subsidies, sector-based market economy assessments, and reviews of special market situations. This trend has significantly increased risks for Vietnamese exporters, especially as global markets impose stricter requirements on traceability and supply chain transparency.

Industry experts say the biggest challenge for many Vietnamese companies is not only the tariffs themselves, but also the lack of comprehensive accounting systems, internal controls, and documentation needed to respond effectively to investigations.

Nguyen Chanh Phuong, vice chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Handicraft and Wood Industry Association (HAWA), says ongoing US investigations into Vietnam’s wood and furniture industry are creating prolonged uncertainty for exporters.

“Although wood export turnover continues to rise, the risks ahead remain substantial. Greater control over raw material supply will determine Vietnam’s competitiveness and its position as a sustainable sourcing destination,” he shares.

The United States is the country that initiates the largest number of trade defence investigations against Vietnamese products. To date, the US has launched 77 cases out of the 297 trade remedy investigations involving Vietnamese exports.

The scope of investigations is also widening. In addition to major export sectors such as steel, aluminum, wood products, seafood, and solar panels, medium-sized export categories are increasingly coming under scrutiny.

Key export industries face rising pressure

Vietnam’s textile and garment industry is among the sectors feeling the strongest pressure.

Pham Van Viet, vice chairman of the Ho Chi Minh City Textile and Fashion Association, reveals the average tariff imposed on Vietnamese textile products entering the US market has climbed to 35.2%, significantly higher than several regional competitors.

According to Viet, around 40-50% of imported materials used in Vietnam’s fiber and textile industry come from China and could face origin-related investigations, increasing the risk of additional tariffs.

“Textile exports to the US have already shown signs of slowing, with growth rates declining sharply compared to previous years,” Viet warns.

Compliance and transparency become essential

Authorities say businesses can no longer rely on reactive responses once investigations begin. Instead, exporters need long-term investments in governance systems and international compliance standards.

Luong Hoang Thai, director of the Trade Remedies Authority of Vietnam under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, says the agency has helped Vietnamese companies successfully resolve nearly half of foreign trade defence cases involving Vietnam.

Thai shares that many exporters have been able to prove they were not dumping products or receiving unfair subsidies, helping them avoid punitive tariffs or secure significantly lower rates than initially proposed.

However, experts predict trade defence investigations will continue to rise, particularly against industries with rapidly growing exports and expanding market shares abroad.

To reduce risks, the Trade Remedies Authority of Vietnam is strengthening early warning systems, legal support, and supply chain transparency initiatives. Still, analysts emphasise that the most critical factor remains the proactive efforts of businesses themselves.

In today’s global trade environment, investments in accounting systems, auditing, traceability, and data governance are no longer merely technical upgrades, they are becoming essential conditions for survival in international markets.

Illegal transshipment and origin fraud are considered among the greatest risks, as they could trigger severe investigations and damage the long-term reputation of Vietnamese goods worldwide.

Businesses urged to prepare for increasingly complex trade remedy measures

VOV.VN - Trade remedy cases against Vietnamese exports are increasing as the country deepens global economic integration and maintains strong export growth.