Vietnam: Challenges for US meat exports due to high tariffs

By Jim Wyckoff Tariff Disparities Affect U.S. Competitiveness US beef exports to Vietnam are subject to Most Favored Nation (MFN) tariffs, which are considerably higher than those of member countries of the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP) and other FTAs. For example, US frozen pork faces a 10% MFN tariff, while CPTPP members such as Canada and Mexico benefit from zero tariffs. Similarly, US beef imports can incur tariffs of up to 30%, while beef from Australia and New Zealand enters Vietnam duty-free under existing agreements. The Vietnamese meat import market is expanding and experiencing significant growth, driven by urbanization, rising incomes, and a growing middle class seeking premium and processed meat products. In 2024, the country imported approximately 876,670 tons of meat and meat products, valued at $1.78 billion, representing an 18.1% increase in value compared to 2023. India remains the largest supplier, accounting ...