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律师解读美越贸易协议:如何理解40%转运关税?零关税又意味着什么?
第一财经·2025-07-08 08:13

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the implications of the recent trade agreement between the United States and Vietnam, particularly focusing on the new 40% tariff on transshipped goods and its potential impact on supply chains and trade dynamics in the region [1][4][9]. Summary by Sections Understanding the 40% Transshipment Tariff - The 40% tariff applies to goods that are minimally processed or merely transshipped through Vietnam before entering the U.S., which aims to enhance U.S. oversight on supply chain and origin compliance [1][4][6]. - The definition of "transshipment" is clarified as not merely transferring goods but involves changing the origin through light processing in Vietnam [5][7]. Implications of Zero Tariff for U.S. Goods - Vietnam's commitment to allow U.S. products to enter its market at zero tariffs could enable these goods to be re-exported to other RCEP countries, potentially weakening tariff barriers [9][10]. - This zero-tariff arrangement is seen as a significant structural change in trade dynamics, possibly increasing competition for Chinese products in the RCEP region [10]. Changes and Effects on Trade - The new tariff structure may lead to higher export costs and uncertainties for Chinese companies, prompting a reassessment of supply chain strategies [13][16]. - The previous practice of using Vietnam as a transshipment point to circumvent tariffs will now face a 40% tariff, significantly raising costs for those goods [13][16]. - Vietnam's foreign direct investment (FDI) reached $21.51 billion in the first half of the year, a 32.6% increase, indicating strong economic growth and investment attractiveness [7].