During the latest round, negotiators focused on flexibly addressing remaining differences.

The 19th round of
negotiations for a free trade agreement (FTA) between Vietnam and the European
Free Trade Association (EFTA), which groups Switzerland, Norway, Iceland and
Liechtenstein,  took place in
Geneva, from February 24 to 27, generating positive momentum as both sides demonstrate strong  determination to reach a trade deal as soon
as possible, according to a report by the Government News.

During the latest round, negotiators focused on resolving
key outstanding issues. Both sides noted substantial progress in core chapters,
including trade in goods and services, investment, intellectual property,
sustainable development and government procurement.

In a bid to expedite the process, the two sides agreed not
to introduce new matters into the  negotiations
and instead concentrate on flexibly addressing remaining differences. Technical
teams are stepping  up legal reviews and
completing necessary procedures, aiming to conclude negotiations and possibly
sign the agreement at the upcoming EFTA Ministerial Conference scheduled to
take place in Iceland this June.

The EFTA side commended Vietnam’s active engagement and its
proposals on market access, while reiterating the bloc’s strengths in fostering
private sector investment and facilitating technology transfer.

Once finalized and signed, the Vietnam–EFTA FTA is expected
to significantly enhance bilateral trade and investment flows, broaden
cooperation with some of Europe’s most advanced economies and make a meaningful
contribution to resilient supply chains and sustainable economic growth.

Vietnam has joined a network of 17 free trade agreements
involving 60 economies, covering most major global markets. Vietnam’s FTA
network can be grouped into three main categories: ASEAN-based agreements,
new-generation FTAs and bilateral accords.

High-standard trade agreements include the Comprehensive and
Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), the Regional
Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP), and the European Union–Vietnam Free
Trade Agreement (EVFTA). These agreements connect Vietnam to major economies
across Asia-Pacific, Europe and the Americas.

VGP-Pham Long