Cambodia has announced a reduction in tariffs on U.S. goods. On Friday, April 4, the country stated that it would lower the current tariff rates on American products. Previously, former U.S. President Donald Trump had imposed a 49% reciprocal tariff on Cambodian goods. Meanwhile, Vietnam has also proposed a similar tariff reduction.
Both Cambodia and Vietnam export large volumes of ready-made garments to the U.S. Like Bangladesh, these two countries’ garment industries have faced challenges due to Trump’s tariff hikes. In response, they have now decided to lower tariffs on U.S. products.
On Wednesday, Trump imposed high tariffs on imports from various countries, including Bangladesh, China, Vietnam, Cambodia, and Japan. He justified this move by stating that these countries have imposed high tariffs on U.S. goods.
Cambodian Minister of Commerce Cham Nimul, in a letter to U.S. Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, mentioned that Cambodia is considering reducing tariffs on 19 categories of American goods. The maximum tariff, currently at 35%, could be lowered to 5%. The minister also expressed Cambodia’s commitment to importing U.S. products. The tariff reduction plan includes motorcycles, cars, and several agricultural products.
Cambodia has urged the U.S. to keep discussions open regarding the imposed tariffs and to delay their implementation. However, it remains uncertain whether the U.S. will consider Cambodia’s request. The Trump administration has alleged that Cambodia not only imposes high tariffs but also engages in currency manipulation and unfair tax practices.
Meanwhile, Vietnam has engaged in separate discussions with President Trump. In a statement on his social media platform, Truth Social, Trump mentioned a recent conversation with Vietnam’s Communist Party General Secretary To Lam. According to Trump, Vietnam is willing to reduce tariffs to zero if a favorable trade deal with the U.S. can be negotiated.
At the same time, Trump has announced a 46% tariff on Vietnamese goods.