Tariff-free U.S. Wheat Arrives in Vietnam

The U.S. Wheat Associates (USWA) is celebrating the arrival of 68,350 metric tons of wheat from the Pacific Northwest and Northern Plains, in Vietnam. The group says it’s the first shipment to arrive there since Vietnam agreed in December to eliminate its 3% tariff on U.S. wheat.

“Eliminating the U.S. wheat import tariff came at the right time for Vietnam given the run-up in U.S. and global wheat prices,” said USWA President Vince Peterson. “We will keep helping Vietnamese customers gain more value with the U.S. wheat supplies needed to meet the growing demand there for better quality wheat foods.” 

U.S. wheat exports to Vietnam rose substantially over the past seven years even with the tariff in place. According to USWA, Vietnamese millers doubled U.S. import volume to more than 520,000 metric tons between 2015 and 2021.

EDITOR’S TAKE:

It is always good to hear news about export market expansion. Trade with Vietnam has experienced a long journey since the conflict with the U.S. ended back in the 1970’s. This is more proof that trade barriers are being lowered or, in this instance, eliminated. Normalized trading relations will benefit both partners. U.S. wheat producers should welcome this news, especially the improved access that will allow additional expansion to occur going forward. More sales equals more income, ultimately leading to more truck purchases. Let the wheat farmers in your area know you support them and their efforts to expand trade!