Vietnamese trade counsellor Tạ Đức Minh outlined opportunities for deeper economic ties with Japan in an interview published on 6 November by the Government Electronic Newspaper. He discussed consumer goods, supporting industries, energy and technology in the context of leader Tô Lâm’s planned official visit to Japan.
Trade and supply chains
The two countries elevated their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership in November 2023. Minh said cooperation had since extended beyond traditional goods trade and investment into green and digital transitions, energy, semiconductors and innovation.
He described the trade relationship as complementary. Vietnam exports goods including garments, seafood, processed food, furniture, machinery and components to Japan, while importing machinery, technology and materials for production.
The Vietnam Trade Office in Japan supported businesses at events including FOODEX JAPAN, FOOMA JAPAN, the SCAJ coffee exhibition and the M-Tech industrial exhibition in 2026, Minh said. It also helped introduce Vietnamese products through AEON and connect companies with Japanese importers and distributors.
Products and market requirements
Minh identified processed food, agricultural products, furniture, consumer goods and industrial components as areas with potential to expand. In coffee, he pointed to roasted and specialty products as well as raw exports. He also stressed the market’s requirements for quality, food safety, traceability, packaging and reliable supply.
In his assessment, Japanese companies’ interest in diversifying supply chains could create opportunities for Vietnamese suppliers. Increasing local content and the capability of supporting industries remain objectives rather than outcomes established by the interview. He also cited semiconductors, automation, training and energy infrastructure as possible areas for cooperation.
Minh expressed hope that the visit would support dialogue and help identify priorities. His remarks were made ahead of the visit; the interview did not announce a newly signed agreement.