Introduction
2025 marks a historic milestone. It has been 30 years since the normalization of diplomatic relations between Vietnam and the United States. From a past defined by distance, the two nations have built one of the most dynamic and forward-looking partnerships in the Asia-Pacific.
Over three decades, trust and trade have become the foundation of this evolving relationship. What began as modest exchanges has grown into a comprehensive partnership encompassing economic development, education, clean energy, and innovation.
In this spirit, The World and Vietnam Report (TGVN), under the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Vietnam, proudly presents a special edition celebrating this milestone. Source of Asia (SOA), a Vietnam-based international business accelerator, is honored to contribute to this publication. The article reflects on how U.S.–Vietnam relations continue to create opportunities, prosperity, and sustainable development for both sides.
30 Years of Economic Cooperation
When Vietnam and the U.S. normalized relations in 1995, bilateral trade totaled less than USD 500 million. Today, the figure exceeds USD 100 billion annually. The U.S. is now Vietnam’s largest export market. Meanwhile, Vietnam ranks among America’s fastest-growing trading partners in Asia.
This expansion reflects not just economic growth but also confidence, consistency, and shared ambition. The U.S.–Vietnam relations have diversified into several sectors:
- Manufacturing and High-tech. S. companies are now key players in Vietnam’s electronics, semiconductor, and machinery industries.
- Healthcare and Life sciences. Collaboration continues to expand in medical devices, pharmaceuticals, and digital health.
- Clean energy. Both countries are committed to renewable energy and green transformation, supporting Vietnam’s net-zero goals.
- Education and People-to-people ties. The U.S. remains a leading destination for Vietnamese students, fostering long-term professional and cultural connections.
As U.S. relations with Vietnam grow stronger, both nations are working to enhance supply-chain resilience, encourage sustainable development, and promote innovation-led cooperation.
SOA’s Role in Strengthening Bilateral Links and Building the Future
For Source of Asia, the story of Vietnam–U.S. relations is more than a diplomatic success. It is a story of collaboration that delivers tangible business impact. This perspective is proudly shared in The World and Vietnam Report’s (TGVN) Special Publication celebrating 30 years of Vietnam–U.S. partnership, where Source of Asia reflects on how meaningful cooperation continues to shape opportunity and growth.
Bridging the U.S. and ASEAN Markets
Through our official representation for Empire State Development (ESD) in Southeast Asia and South Korea, New York State’s economic development agency, SOA, supports U.S. companies entering Vietnam and ASEAN markets. At the same time, it helps Vietnamese businesses explore opportunities in the U.S., strengthening the trade bridge between the two countries.
In fact, SOA’s participation in initiatives such as the SelectUSA ASEAN Roadshow further reinforces its mission: to connect investors, policymakers, and enterprises in building cross-border partnerships that last.
A real-world example is Decowraps, a U.S. floral-packaging company. SOA helped the firm identify reliable suppliers and expand across Southeast Asia. The project demonstrates how SOA connects American innovation with ASEAN manufacturing excellence.
Collaboration with SIDO
SOA also works closely with SIDO (State International Development Organizations). SIDO is an influential U.S. alliance that links state-level trade and investment agencies.
During SIDO’s Best Practices & Training Forum, SOA shared regional insights on supply-chain diversification and ASEAN market dynamics, helping American states and companies strengthen their global engagement strategies.
Mr. Thierry Mermet, CEO of Source of Asia, participated in the SIDO Best Practices & Training Forum in April 2025, Washington, D.C.. He contributed insights on U.S.–Vietnam business cooperation and market connectivity.
Building Sustainable Business Bridges
Beyond its government partnerships, SOA provides practical business acceleration services, from market research and sourcing to corporate setup and HR solutions. With headquarters in Ho Chi Minh City and active networks in ASEAN, South Korea, France, and the U.S., SOA acts as a trusted bridge between global investors and local opportunities.
Looking ahead, SOA continues to focus on clean energy, digital transformation, advanced manufacturing, and workforce development, sectors that will define the next phase of U.S.-Vietnam relations.
⇒ How new U.S. tariff policies in 2025 may affect international supply chains, investment flows, and market access in Asia. Read our latest story here: Trump Admits Tariffs 2025.
Final Words: Vietnam–U.S. Relations Keep Growing
The story of Vietnam–U.S. relations over the past 30 years is remarkable, from reconciliation to partnership, from uncertainty to shared ambition. What began as an act of diplomacy has evolved into a deep and enduring alliance rooted in trade, trust, and innovation.
For Source of Asia, this milestone is both a celebration and a commitment. As Vietnam continues to open its doors to global business, SOA stands ready to help companies connect, collaborate, and grow. Thus, we are strengthening the bridge between Vietnam, the United States, and the world.
