Vietnam Intensifies Crackdown on Piracy to Avert US Tariffs

Vietnam is launching an intensified effort to combat online piracy and counterfeit goods after being warned by the United States of potential new tariffs due to intellectual property violations. This initiative by Vietnam's government aims to enhance detection of copyright infringement and increase customs clearance suspensions by 20%.

In response to potential new tariffs from the United States due to persistent intellectual property violations, Vietnam will intensify its crackdown on online piracy starting Thursday. The government aims to boost detections of such infringements by 20%, as outlined by Prime Minister Le Minh Hung.

The finance ministry has been instructed to increase cases of suspended customs clearance for counterfeit goods by at least 20% compared to last May. The U.S. has labeled Vietnam the worst offender for IP violations, raising the possibility of a tariff investigation.

Amid pressure from Washington, Vietnam calls for an objective assessment of its efforts to protect intellectual property, noting significant strides made. With China as its main supplier and the U.S. as its top export market, Vietnam faces a delicate balancing act in addressing trade relations and IP issues.