Number: RL34702
Title: Potential Trade Effects of Adding Vietnam to the Generalized System of Preferences Program
Authors: Michael F. Martin and Vivian C. Jones, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: Vietnam's addition to the U.S. GSP program is generally viewed as another step in the process of promoting the continued growth of trade relations and expanding bilateral ties between the two countries. In December 2006, Congress passed and President Bush signed H.R. 6111 (P.L.109-432), extending permanent normal trade relations (PNTR) status to Vietnam. On January 11, 2007, Vietnam acceded into membership in the World Trade Organization (WTO). On June 21, 2007, the two nations concluded a Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA). During their summit meeting (the fourth such meeting in four years), Prime Minister Dung and President Bush also discussed initiating negotiations of a Bilateral Investment Treaty (BIT). Vietnam has also expressed an interest in eventually negotiating a Free Trade Agreement (FTA) with the United States.
Pages: 14
Date: October 9, 2008