Vietnam fast-tracks U.S. deportations amid trade pressure

Vietnam has agreed to accelerate the deportation of its nationals from the United States following U.S. threats of trade tariffs and visa sanctions, according to Reuters. The shift marks a major departure from Vietnam’s past reluctance to accept deportees.

U.S.-based immigration lawyer Tin Thanh Nguyen, who was briefed by a Vietnamese official, stated that Hanoi will now process deportation requests within 30 days. This is a significantly faster than previous delays. Vietnam has also issued travel documents for 30 detainees currently held in the U.S., paving the way for their removal, as described by Tribune.

The decision comes as Vietnam faces growing trade risks. Although President Trump has not directly targeted Vietnam in recent tariff announcements, U.S. officials have hinted that its large trade surplus and restrictive policies could make it a target. According to Reuters, Vietnam is particularly vulnerable to potential global semiconductor tariffs, which could severely impact its economy.

U.S. authorities deported over 37,000 people in the first month of Trump’s second term, with some Vietnamese nationals already sent to Panama. The majority of the 8,600 Vietnamese facing deportation have lived in the U.S. for decades, often arriving as refugees before 1995, following the Vietnam War.

Vietnam’s Foreign Ministry has not yet responded. However, a spokesperson recently confirmed the country’s commitment to repatriation agreements. Meanwhile, White House National Security Council spokesman Brian Hughes stressed that nations must take back their citizens or face consequences.

Vietnam’s move underscores its economic dependence on the U.S. as it seeks to maintain trade stability and avoid sanctions.