Vietnam and the United States are promoting energy cooperation to balance bilateral trade.

On the afternoon of February 4, 2026, on the sidelines of the 6th Round of negotiations for a Fair and Balanced Reciprocal Trade Agreement, Acting Minister of Industry and Trade Le Manh Hung held an important meeting with US Deputy Secretary of Energy James Danly . The meeting focused on defining energy as a new strategic pillar to drive economic growth and adjust the trade balance between the two countries.

Energy infrastructure needs and the Net Zero 2050 target.

During the meeting, Acting Minister Le Manh Hung emphasized that Vietnam is maintaining its goal of double-digit economic growth. This pace leads to a rapid and long-term increase in energy demand, requiring breakthrough solutions in supply and technology. Vietnam identifies expanding cooperation with the United States as a key priority in this process.

Representatives from the Ministry of Industry and Trade clarified the urgent needs for the development of LNG power plants, renewable energy (offshore wind power, solar power), and electricity storage systems. This is not only a solution to meet national electricity demand but also a roadmap to realize Vietnam's declared commitment to achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

A view of the working session between Acting Minister Le Manh Hung and Deputy Secretary of Energy James Danly.

Increase imports of technology and fuel from the United States.

Vietnam has requested that the U.S. Department of Energy facilitate faster access for domestic businesses to machinery, equipment, and fuel supplies. Specifically, Vietnam is interested in advanced technological solutions such as GE's turbine generators and expects U.S. companies to ensure the timely implementation of key energy projects in Vietnam.

Deputy Secretary James Danly affirmed that the United States possesses superior strengths in the LNG and crude oil supply chains and in managing modern energy systems. He argued that increasing the proportion of imports of these products from the United States would not only help Vietnam ensure energy security but also serve as a practical tool to adjust the bilateral trade balance towards greater balance and sustainability.

Acting Minister of Industry and Trade Le Manh Hung and US Deputy Secretary of Energy James Danly

Strengthening connectivity in the Indo- Pacific region.

At the conclusion of the meeting, the US side extended an official invitation to Acting Minister Le Manh Hung to attend the Ministerial and Business Forum on Energy Security in the Indo-Pacific region. The event is scheduled to take place from March 14-15, 2026 in Tokyo, Japan.

This forum is expected to open up opportunities for policy coordination and promote investment flows into energy infrastructure, contributing to strengthening Vietnam's position in the regional energy value chain.

Source: https://baodanang.vn/viet-nam-va-hoa-ky-thuc-day-hop-tac-nang-luong-nham-can-bang-thuong-mai-song-phuong-3324149.html