The Vietnam Timber and Forest Products Association (VIFORES) has proposed that the government review and adjust import policies to increase the volume of wood imports from the United States. This move aims to foster a more balanced trade relationship and create new market opportunities for American timber products in Vietnam.
Woodlands factory in Vietnam has the US as their main export market/img: VNA
At a recent meeting with Minister of Agriculture and Environment Do Duc Duy, Mr. Ngo Sy Hoai, Vice Chairman and Secretary General of VIFORES, highlighted the growing trade surplus in Vietnam’s wood sector. While Vietnam exports approximately USD 9.4 billion worth of wood and forest products each year, imports from the U.S. remain modest at around USD 323 million. Of that, nearly USD 300 million consists of raw materials like oak and ash, which are primarily processed and re-exported.
Mr. Hoai pointed out that the U.S. is actively seeking international markets for its timber products, especially after China’s recent ban on U.S. roundwood and sawn timber imports, a trade segment valued at nearly USD 2 billion annually. Vietnam, already the world’s second-largest importer of American wood, is in a strategic position to absorb a larger share of these exports.
“By increasing imports of U.S. wood, Vietnam can not only diversify its raw material sources but also help narrow the trade gap with the U.S.,” Mr. Hoai explained. He emphasized that expanding imports of sawn timber and other wood products could support the domestic furniture manufacturing industry and enhance cooperation between the two nations.
VIFORES has formally suggested that the government consider reducing or eliminating import duties on select U.S. timber products. This recommendation follows Vietnam’s recent decision to waive import taxes on U.S. timber shipments—an encouraging signal of goodwill from the country’s leadership.
In the long run, Mr. Hoai believes that this policy shift could contribute to a healthier trade balance and help stabilize the timber supply chain for Vietnamese manufacturers. He also noted that increased imports would align with Vietnam’s commitment to legal and sustainable timber sourcing, supporting the country’s participation in international forestry agreements.
“This is a timely opportunity for Vietnam to strengthen its trade ties with the U.S. while securing access to high-quality wood materials,” Mr. Hoai stated, adding that the association will continue working closely with policymakers and businesses to realize this goal.
Vietnamagriculture
Woodlands factory in Vietnam has the US as their main export market/img: VNA
At a recent meeting with Minister of Agriculture and Environment Do Duc Duy, Mr. Ngo Sy Hoai, Vice Chairman and Secretary General of VIFORES, highlighted the growing trade surplus in Vietnam’s wood sector. While Vietnam exports approximately USD 9.4 billion worth of wood and forest products each year, imports from the U.S. remain modest at around USD 323 million. Of that, nearly USD 300 million consists of raw materials like oak and ash, which are primarily processed and re-exported.
Mr. Hoai pointed out that the U.S. is actively seeking international markets for its timber products, especially after China’s recent ban on U.S. roundwood and sawn timber imports, a trade segment valued at nearly USD 2 billion annually. Vietnam, already the world’s second-largest importer of American wood, is in a strategic position to absorb a larger share of these exports.
“By increasing imports of U.S. wood, Vietnam can not only diversify its raw material sources but also help narrow the trade gap with the U.S.,” Mr. Hoai explained. He emphasized that expanding imports of sawn timber and other wood products could support the domestic furniture manufacturing industry and enhance cooperation between the two nations.
VIFORES has formally suggested that the government consider reducing or eliminating import duties on select U.S. timber products. This recommendation follows Vietnam’s recent decision to waive import taxes on U.S. timber shipments—an encouraging signal of goodwill from the country’s leadership.
In the long run, Mr. Hoai believes that this policy shift could contribute to a healthier trade balance and help stabilize the timber supply chain for Vietnamese manufacturers. He also noted that increased imports would align with Vietnam’s commitment to legal and sustainable timber sourcing, supporting the country’s participation in international forestry agreements.
“This is a timely opportunity for Vietnam to strengthen its trade ties with the U.S. while securing access to high-quality wood materials,” Mr. Hoai stated, adding that the association will continue working closely with policymakers and businesses to realize this goal.
Vietnamagriculture