Strengthening U.S.-Vietnam Ties in a China+1 Strategy

Vietnam has emerged as a vital partner for the United States in promoting regional stability, economic resilience, and secure supply chains across the Indo-Pacific. With its strong economic growth, strategic location, and deepening Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with the U.S., Vietnam is well-positioned to address shared challenges and advance mutual interests. A new report, authored by a BENS delegation that visited the Southeast Asian nation in fall 2024, examines these opportunities through the lens of the China Plus One Strategy, offering a roadmap for strengthening bilateral ties and enhancing regional collaboration.

Key insights from the report include recommendations to encourage U.S. private investment in Vietnam, foster strategic industry partnerships, expand military and educational cooperation, and provide targeted development assistance to support growth in critical sectors like biotechnology and energy. The report also highlights opportunities to address shared challenges, such as improving governance and leveraging the U.S.-Vietnam partnership, while mitigating risks posed by state ownership, energy dependency, and regulatory delays. These steps aim to forge a stronger U.S.-Vietnam relationship and contribute to the Indo-Pacific’s long-term stability and prosperity.