In a phone call with President Trump, Vietnam’s top leader called for mutual 0% tariffs and more U.S. investment in Vietnam.


General Secretary To Lam held a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump to discuss trade and bilateral relations. Photo: VNA

During a phone call with U.S. President Donald Trump, General Secretary To Lam expressed Vietnam’s willingness to negotiate with the United States to reduce import tariffs on American goods to 0%, and in return, proposed that the U.S. apply the same tariff rate on Vietnamese exports.

The conversation took place on the evening of April 4 at the headquarters of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Vietnam. Also present during the call were Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh, Chief of the Party Central Office Le Hoai Trung, and Deputy Prime Minister Ho Duc Phoc.

General Secretary To Lam praised the constructive dialogue, noting that both leaders reaffirmed their desire to strengthen bilateral cooperation for the benefit of both nations, contributing to peace, stability, and development in the region and globally.

The two leaders agreed that the current U.S.-Vietnam relationship is progressing positively across multiple sectors.

Regarding bilateral trade, the leaders discussed several measures to further promote economic exchange. General Secretary To Lam stated that Vietnam is ready to engage in discussions with the U.S. to bring tariffs on American imports down to zero. At the same time, he proposed that the U.S. adopt a reciprocal tariff policy for Vietnamese exports. He also called on the U.S. to continue exporting more products that align with Vietnam's domestic demand, and to create favorable conditions for American companies to increase their investments in Vietnam.

Both sides agreed to continue consultations toward the early signing of a bilateral framework agreement to formalize these commitments.

On this occasion, General Secretary To Lam extended an invitation to President Donald Trump and the First Lady to visit Vietnam again in the near future.

President Trump graciously accepted the invitation and expressed his eagerness to reunite with General Secretary To Lam.

He also conveyed his warmest regards to the leaders and people of Vietnam through the General Secretary.
VietBF@ Sưu tập

The "Bac Bling" music video by Hoa Minzy has surpassed the one-billion-dong revenue threshold as it has become a ‘phenomenon’. However, it’s highly unlikely that YouTube revenue alone will help Hoa Minzy break even.


Singer Hoa Minzy in Bac Bling

The "Bac Bling" MV hit 100 million views after just 28 days, making it the most captivating music product in the Vietnamese market over the past five years.

YouTube’s revenue calculation primarily depends on the number of ad views and clicks displayed on the original video. The higher a video’s viewership, the more ad impressions it generates.

A digital music marketing expert explained that revenue varies per video on YouTube depending on ad impressions, views, or clicks. For a music MV, typically under five minutes, one million views bring in VND8-10 million in revenue. This is the average level for most revenue-generating artist videos.

So, with 100 million views for "Bac Bling," Hoa Minzy could earn around one billion dong. This is a very high YouTube revenue figure, considering the MV hit 100 million views in just a month. With the ongoing "Bac Bling" buzz, views will keep climbing, continuing to generate revenue for Hoa Minzy.

For "Bac Bling," Hoa Minzy didn’t partner with any brand. This allowed her full creative control over the MV as she wished. In return, she had to shoulder all production costs herself.

Experts estimate "Bac Bling" costs no less than VND3 billion. The priciest parts were equipment and the large workforce needed for outdoor shooting sets. Plus, Hoa Minzy paid for appearances by Xuan Hinh, Tuan Cry, and other actors.

To obtain revenue equal to the production cost, "Bac Bling" needs 3-4 times its current views. Hoa Minzy also has to share 10-30 percent of the revenue with the team in charge of managing, exploiting, and optimizing her YouTube channel.

"For an artist of Hoa Minzy’s caliber, most don’t think about breaking even when making a YouTube MV. Even with partial brand sponsorship, recouping costs is tough. After launching an MV, artists have to spend more money on promotion, thus ballooning the total investment," the expert said.

"Artists pour billions into MVs to boost their image and music. When a product hits massive success like 'Bac Bling,' YouTube or digital music revenue becomes peanuts. It opens up countless money-making opportunities, from gigs to ad contracts and brand ambassadorships," the expert added.

Hoa Minzy’s new position

Before "Bac Bling," Hoa Minzy had already cemented her firm position in the market with the success of "Thi Mau" and later "Bat Tinh Yeu Len" (Turn on the love). Over the past three years, the Bac Ninh native has built a positive image, shaping her path as a singer blending Vietnam’s traditional culture into music.

According to Tien Phong’s findings, before “Bac Bling," Hoa Minzy’s cachet for a brand event ranged from VND300 to VND400 million per show—a decent rate in Vietnam’s music scene over the last three years. With the "Bac Bling" fever, her status has soared to new heights, and her fee is sure to see a dramatic jump.

In Vietnam’s music market, singers’ earnings mostly come from three sources: digital music revenue, live performances, and collaborations with brands. For most artists, landing gigs is the top priority—a quick, efficient income stream that also boosts their career.

After "Bac Bling" successes, Hoa Minzy hasn’t appeared much on stage. Recently, the 1995-born singer performed at an event for a beauty clinic brand. In the coming time, she’ll undoubtedly be a name that brands eagerly chase.

With her current fee range, Hoa Minzy only needs a few brand gigs to obtain revenue equal to one-year YouTube revenue and digital music.

For digital platforms alone, revenue calculation is complex and varies by platform. On Spotify, "Bac Bling" is nearing 3 million streams. Compared to YouTube, Spotify pays better, averaging VND25-30 million per million streams.

The "Bac Bling" craze has lit up an entire team in Vietnam’s music scene. Hoa Minzy is now a top-tier star. Xuan Hinh has made a comeback after stepping away from the spotlight. Tuan Cry, once a lesser-known singer-songwriter, is now invited to numerous shows.

In the past month, Tuan Cry has been the busiest, performing "Bac Bling" live more than anyone in the trio. Recently, Hoa Minzy and Tuan Cry shared a stage to perform. Fans are now eagerly awaiting the first-ever "trio performance" of Hoa Minzy, Xuan Hinh, and Tuan Cry.
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A former chairman of An Giang Province was sentenced to jail on Wednesday for taking a US$300,000 bribe and allowing a company to mine sand illegally.

The Ho Chi Minh City People's Court awarded Nguyen Thanh Binh a sentence of eight and a half years.


Nguyen Thanh Binh, former chairman of An Giang Province, is escorted by police to a trial in Ho Chi Minh City. Photo by VnExpress/Quynh Tran

The judges said he had directed his subordinates to enable Trung Hau 68 Company to mine sand without going through the bidding process, causing a loss of nearly VND294 billion ($11.47 million) to the province.

The company's chairman, Le Quang Binh, also paid VND961 million to the province's vice chairman, Tran Anh Thu, and VND3.1 billion to Nguyen Viet Tri, director of the Department of Natural Resources and Environment.

Binh was sentenced to 13 years in prison for bribery, six years for violating regulations on research, exploration and exploitation of resources and 12 years for money laundering. The 30 years he received is the maximum term in Vietnam after a life sentence.

The An Giang Province people's committee granted Trung Hau 68 a license to mine 300,000 m3 of sand between March 2022 and July 2023.

But the company repeatedly asked to increase the mining volume.

Though it failed to meet the requisite conditions, province leader Binh directed his subordinates to amend the license to allow the company to exploit 1.5 million m3 over two years to supply sand to southern expressway and highway projects.

However, Binh, the company chief, directed his deputies to mine more than 5 million m3 and also leased out the sand mines to other businesses.

With the ill-gotten profits he bought properties in HCMC and some southern provinces and luxury cars such as Mercedes S450 and Lexus 570.


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The United Airlines plans to add daily flights to Vietnam and Thailand in October, further expanding the network for the U.S.-based carrier that already has the most Asia service, reported CNBC.



In the expansion, its airplanes from Los Angeles and San Francisco that are headed for Hong Kong will then go on to the two new destinations: Thailand’s Bangkok and Vietnam’s Ho Chi Minh City, with service set to begin on Oct. 26.

On Oct. 25, United Airlines plans to add a second daily nonstop flight from San Francisco to Manila, the Philippines, and on Dec. 11, it will launch nonstops from San Francisco to Adelaide, Australia, which will operate three days a week.

The news site noted that the carrier has been adding far-flung destinations not served by rivals to its routes, like Nuuk, Greenland, and Bilbao, Spain, which will start later this year. Getting the mix right is especially important as carriers seek to grow their lucrative loyalty programs and need attractive destinations to keep customers spending.

VietBF@ Sưu tập

Both red-fleshed and white-fleshed dragon fruit are packed with beneficial nutrients, but the choice between the two largely depends on individual preferences and health needs.

According to Dr. Huynh Tan Vu from the University of Medicine and Pharmacy in Ho Chi Minh City, 100 grams of dragon fruit contains 60 calories, 13 grams of carbohydrates, 1.2 grams of protein, 3 grams of fiber, and is rich in vitamins such as C, B1, B2, and B3, as well as minerals like iron, calcium, and phosphorus—while being completely fat-free.

Red-fleshed dragon fruit has a sweeter taste compared to its white-fleshed counterpart. This is due to its higher sugar content—100 grams of red-fleshed dragon fruit contains 11.5 grams of sugar, whereas the white-fleshed variety has only 7.65 grams.

Both types of dragon fruit have a low glycemic index (GI), ranging from 48 to 52, making them suitable for people with diabetes. The high fiber content helps slow down the absorption of sugars and carbohydrates, promoting stable blood sugar levels. However, for those with diabetes or those trying to lose weight, Dr. Vu recommends opting for white-fleshed dragon fruit due to its lower sugar content.

Red-fleshed dragon fruit is richer in antioxidants, particularly anthocyanins, vitamin C, and carotene, which help neutralize free radicals in the body and reduce cell damage. These antioxidants can be beneficial for preventing inflammatory conditions such as gout, diabetes-related inflammation, and arthritis. While white-fleshed dragon fruit also contains these compounds, they are found in lower amounts.

Red-fleshed dragon fruit is rarer and often more expensive, with many varieties being imported. On the other hand, white-fleshed dragon fruit is more widely available and affordable.

Dr. Vu suggests that if you’re after a larger quantity of fruit flesh, go for larger white-fleshed dragon fruits. If you prefer a sweeter, richer flavor, opt for the rounder, red-fleshed dragon fruits instead.

Important Considerations When Consuming Dragon Fruit:
For individuals with diabetes, it is recommended to consume two servings of dragon fruit per day, with one serving being around 120 grams.

Those who often experience stomach discomfort, loose stools, or bloating should avoid eating dragon fruit.

Women during their menstrual period are advised to refrain from consuming dragon fruit.

Pregnant women should carefully consider eating dragon fruit, as it contains high levels of plant-based protein, which some individuals may be allergic to.

While red-fleshed dragon fruit is rich in nutrients, it should be consumed in moderation. Excessive consumption can cause dark red-colored stool and urine, which may have negative health effects.

According to Healthline, walking is an effective way to target visceral fat, which accumulates around the abdomen and can be harmful to your health. A 2021 review found that walking was successful in reducing visceral fat when done three times a week for 30 to 60 minutes. By incorporating walking into your daily routine, you can reduce belly fat and enhance your overall health.

This is primarily due to walking’s ability to help your body burn calories, a crucial factor in losing belly fat. Physical activity requires energy, and walking increases your calorie expenditure. A 2021 study showed that walking burns about 107 calories per mile (1.6 kilometers), depending on factors like weight, gender, and pace. This calorie burn helps create a calorie deficit, which is essential for weight and belly fat loss.

In addition to burning calories, regular walking helps preserve lean muscle mass, which is essential for maintaining a healthy metabolic rate. Since muscle burns more calories than fat, keeping muscle mass helps your body continue to burn calories efficiently, even at rest, preventing the accumulation of fat. Walking helps prevent muscle loss, making it easier to keep belly fat off.

For optimal results, Harvard Medical School recommends engaging in at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity activity most days of the week, such as brisk walking at a comfortable pace. According to Medical News Today, brisk walking involves maintaining a pace of up to 4.5 miles per hour.

It is also beneficial to find ways to incorporate more movement into your daily routine. For example, park further away from your destination, take the stairs instead of the elevator, or stand while talking on the phone to increase your physical activity.

Vietnam has declared a two-day national mourning period, from April 4 to 5, to honor Khamtay Siphandone, former President of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee. This decision reflects the deep and special relationship between Vietnam and Laos.

The announcement was jointly issued by the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee, the National Assembly, the State President, the Government, and the Vietnam Fatherland Front Central Committee. It emphasized the significance of Khamtay Siphandone’s contributions to Laos and to the friendship between the two nations.

During the mourning period, all government offices and public institutions across the country, as well as Vietnam’s representative bodies abroad, are required to fly the national flag at half-mast with mourning bands as prescribed. At the same time, all public entertainment and celebratory events will be suspended.

Khamtay Siphandone was born on February 8, 1924, and passed away at 10:30 a.m. on April 2, 2025. He served in various top leadership roles in Laos, including President, Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of National Defense.

As a pioneering leader of the Lao revolutionary movement, he played a vital role in the ultimate victory of the Lao revolution and in guiding the country on the path to socialism. He was widely recognized for his dedication, strategic vision, and long-standing service to his country.

Khamtay Siphandone was also a close and trusted friend of Vietnam. He made significant contributions to strengthening and developing the two countries’ great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation.

His passing is regarded as an immense loss for Laos and for the Vietnam–Laos relationship. Vietnam’s national mourning is a solemn tribute to a man whose legacy will continue to be remembered and honored by both nations.

Japan could face economic losses of up to US$1.81 trillion and nearly 300,000 fatalities if a long-feared megaquake strikes off its Pacific coast, according to a new government report released Monday.

The projected cost—270.3 trillion yen, or about half of Japan’s GDP—represents a sharp increase from the previous estimate of 214.2 trillion yen. The updated figure accounts for inflation, new terrain and ground data, and expanded tsunami flood zones, as revealed by the Cabinet Office.

Key details from the report:
Expected magnitude: 8 to 9, centered in the Nankai Trough—a seismically active zone off southwest Japan’s Pacific coast, about 900 km long.

Fatalities: Up to 298,000, especially if the quake hits at night during winter, increasing vulnerability.

Evacuations: An estimated 1.23 million people could be displaced—roughly 10% of Japan’s population.

Damage: Thousands of buildings could collapse, and massive tsunamis are expected to follow.

Why this is such a serious risk:
Japan lies on the Ring of Fire, one of the most seismically active areas in the world. The Nankai Trough is a known hotspot where the Philippine Sea Plate is subducting beneath the Eurasian Plate, building up strain that historically leads to megaquakes every 100 to 150 years.

In fact, the government estimates an 80% chance that such a quake will strike the Nankai Trough region within the next few decades.

Japan even issued its first-ever megaquake advisory last year after a magnitude-7.1 tremor struck near the trough's edge—raising concern that it could be a foreshock for something bigger.

The memory of the 2011 Tōhoku earthquake still looms large. That magnitude-9.0 quake caused a tsunami, over 15,000 deaths, and led to the Fukushima nuclear disaster—a tragedy Japan is determined not to repeat.

The new report highlights not only the human toll such a disaster could take, but also the economic devastation, reinforcing the urgent need for preparedness, infrastructure resilience, and community-level disaster planning.

Want a quick breakdown of what this might mean for Japan’s future disaster policy or global economic ripple effects?

The World Meteorological Organization (WMO) announced Wednesday that the names Beryl, Helene, Milton, and John will be permanently retired from future use in naming tropical storms due to the severe destruction and loss of life they caused. These storms were among the deadliest in recent memory: Beryl, Helene, and Milton in the Atlantic, and John in the eastern Pacific.

To replace them, the WMO has added Brianna, Holly, and Miguel to the Atlantic storm name list, and Jake to the eastern Pacific list. These names, like all on the WMO’s storm rosters, are selected for being short, clear, and easy to pronounce, rotating every six years and alternating between male and female.

Storm names are retired when the hurricanes or cyclones they’re attached to are so devastating that reusing the names in future seasons would be insensitive or confusing. For example, in 2024:

Hurricane Beryl became the earliest-ever Category 5 storm in the Atlantic, severely impacting the Caribbean.

Helene and Milton caused catastrophic destruction in the U.S.

John unleashed deadly flooding across Guerrero, Mexico.

Experts warn that climate change is intensifying these storms. Tropical cyclones, which include hurricanes, cyclones, and typhoons, draw energy from warm ocean waters and moisture in the air. As sea surface temperatures rise, so does the intensity and frequency of powerful storms.

The 2024 Atlantic hurricane season marked the ninth year in a row with above-average activity. There were 18 named storms, of which five became major hurricanes—reaching Category 3 or higher with winds over 178 km/h (111 mph), according to the U.S. National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).

The WMO continues to emphasize that the proportion of severe storms (Categories 4–5) is likely to rise globally with ongoing global warming, making storm preparedness and clear communication more important than ever.

Nearly a week after a powerful earthquake struck central Myanmar, the official death toll has climbed to 3,145, the country’s military-led government reported Thursday. Search and rescue teams continue to uncover more victims, while humanitarian organizations race to deliver vital medical care and shelter to the survivors.

At a government briefing in Naypyitaw, Information Minister Maung Maung Ohn said that 4,589 people have been injured and 221 remain missing, according to a report by state-run broadcaster MRTV.

The earthquake, measured at magnitude 7.7, struck on March 28 with its epicenter located near Mandalay, Myanmar’s second-largest city. The seismic event caused widespread destruction—collapsi ng thousands of buildings, cracking roads, and destroying bridges across multiple regions.

Although the official numbers are already grim, independent reports from local media suggest the actual casualty count could be much higher. With communication networks severely disrupted and many remote areas still inaccessible, officials fear the true scale of the disaster has yet to emerge.

UN Warns of Massive Humanitarian Impact
According to a Thursday report by the United Nations Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (OCHA), the quake and its aftershocks have affected over 17 million people across 57 townships—more than 9 million of them severely impacted.

“The coming days will be critical in determining the full scale of the disaster’s impact and the response required to meet the needs of millions affected,” the U.N. stated.

In response to the worsening crisis, U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres announced that U.N. humanitarian chief Tom Fletcher and special envoy Julie Bishop will arrive in Myanmar on Friday. Guterres made an urgent appeal for increased international aid and unhindered humanitarian access to reach those in need.

“The earthquake has supercharged the suffering, with the monsoon season just around the corner,” Guterres warned.

Healthcare System in Crisis
The World Health Organization (WHO) reported that four hospitals and one health center have been completely destroyed, while an additional 32 hospitals and 18 health centers sustained partial damage.

With infrastructure crumbling and a surge in patient numbers, access to essential healthcare has become nearly impossible in the worst-hit regions. The U.N. warns that thousands are in urgent need of trauma care, surgery, and treatment for potential disease outbreaks.

To support local efforts, India has deployed a mobile hospital, and a joint Russian-Belarusian medical unit is now operating in Mandalay.

Relief and Recovery Underway
With many homes destroyed or unsafe due to aftershocks, large numbers of people are sleeping outdoors. In Naypyitaw, workers have been erecting large tents in open areas under scorching temperatures of up to 40°C (104°F) to provide temporary shelter.

In Mandalay, scenes of compassion were visible as locals handed out watermelon slices to exhausted Chinese volunteers working under the punishing sun.

According to a statement from the military, more than 1,550 international rescuers are now on the ground, operating alongside local teams. Seventeen countries have sent relief supplies and rescue equipment to aid the recovery efforts.

Earthquake Damage Spills Across Borders
The quake’s impact wasn’t limited to Myanmar. In Bangkok, Thailand, the tremor toppled a high-rise under construction, killing 22 people and injuring 35 others. As of Thursday, search crews continued scouring the rubble after sensors detected a possible sound from beneath the debris—but no survivors had been found by day's end.

Elon Musk Signals Starlink’s Vietnam Ambitions by Reposting Announcement Without Comment

Tech billionaire Elon Musk has drawn attention to his satellite internet company’s plans in Vietnam after quietly resharing a post on X (formerly Twitter) about the upcoming rollout of Starlink services in the country. While Musk offered no accompanying commentary, his repost has sparked renewed interest in SpaceX’s efforts to expand its global internet footprint into Southeast Asia.

The original post was made on Thursday by blockchain entrepreneur Mario Nawfal, who cited a Reuters report stating that SpaceX intends to deploy 10 to 15 Starlink ground stations in Vietnam, with the first to be established in Da Nang. Nawfal expressed excitement over what he described as a pivotal development for the region:

"SpaceX is sparking a real-deal shift and planting Vietnam on the satellite map!"

According to Reuters, citing sources familiar with the matter, Vietnamese authorities have granted initial approval for a trial phase, setting the stage for the launch of Starlink’s high-speed satellite internet services in the country. Groundwork for the first station, which will reportedly cost around US$3 million, is already underway.

Infrastructure Plans and Regulatory Framework
If all planned stations are successfully constructed, Vietnam could become one of the most infrastructure-rich countries in Asia for Starlink, potentially becoming a regional hub for satellite internet coverage.

To meet government requirements, SpaceX is building the ground stations in line with Vietnamese regulatory standards. This includes setting up a local legal entity and constructing a gateway station that connects satellite-generated traffic to the national telecommunications network.

At a recent meeting with Deputy Prime Minister Nguyen Chi Dung, Nguyen Thanh Chung, head of the Authority of Telecommunications, confirmed the ongoing collaboration between SpaceX and Vietnamese agencies.

"They are preparing the necessary documents and equipment to bring to Vietnam," Chung said, noting that the process is expected to be finalized before the end of the year.

The Vietnamese government has authorized a trial phase that runs through January 1, 2031, allowing up to 600,000 subscribers during that time. This phase is subject to strict compliance with national security and cybersecurity standards, including the following:

All satellite internet traffic must pass through the Vietnam-based gateway.

User data must be stored domestically.

Service providers must take measures to prevent the spread of malware and harmful online content.

Commercial Viability and Market Challenges
Despite the growing excitement, Starlink faces notable challenges in Vietnam’s internet market. The country already has widespread broadband coverage and relatively low-cost internet access, meaning Starlink’s premium-priced services may not be widely adopted in urban areas. Analysts believe the company may need to offer additional or tailored services to compete effectively.

Still, in remote or mountainous areas, where connectivity remains limited, Starlink could fill key infrastructure gaps. Moreover, the presence of advanced satellite infrastructure might serve broader strategic or defense-related purposes, helping Vietnam bolster its digital capabilities.

Looking Ahead
Starlink's expansion into Vietnam marks a significant step for both SpaceX and the region’s digital ecosystem. With its infrastructure plans now public and early groundwork being laid, all eyes will be on how quickly and effectively the service rolls out.

Musk’s silent endorsement via repost suggests he’s paying close attention to the project’s development—and may have bigger plans for the region in the years to come.

U.S. President Donald Trump on Thursday proposed a 10% tariff on an island with no people and lots of penguins, sparking a flurry of memes that have been going viral on the Internet.

One widely shared image on Thursday showed a penguin in place of Ukrainian leader Volodymyr Zelensky in the Oval Office during his recent row with the U.S. president and Vice President JD Vance.

Another meme showed U.S. First Lady Melania Trump gazing up at an emperor penguin -- in place of former Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau -- while Trump looks askance.

Trump's announcement of worldwide tariffs certainly received an icy reception in many countries.

But there has also been bafflement about why some of the most remote parts of the world have been targeted.

A case in point: why would Trump slap 10% tariffs on all exports from the Heard and McDonald Islands, a barren sub-Antarctic Australian territory without a human population, but four different species of penguin?

"The penguins have been ripping us off for years," Anthony Scaramucci, who was Trump's former communications chief for 11 days in his first term and is now a vocal critic, joked on X.

"Donald Trump slapped tariffs on penguins and not on Putin," posted U.S. Senate Democratic leader Chuck Schumer, referring to the fact that Russia was not on the U.S. tariff list.


A group of penguins. Illustration photo by Pexels

The White House said sanctions on Russia over President Vladimir Putin's war only meant that there was no "meaningful" trade on which to impose tariffs.

Trump also caused puzzlement with his 29% tariff on Norfolk Island, a tiny Australian territory in the Pacific with a population of a little over 2,000 humans.

"I'm not quite sure that Norfolk Island, with respect to it, is a trade competitor with the giant economy of the United States," Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said.

Britain's remote Falkland Islands -- home to one million penguins, and most famous for a 1982 war fought by Britain to repel Argentinian invaders -- was hit by 41% exports even though the U.K. only faces 10%.

Trump's tariffs have however been no laughing matter for global markets, with U.S. stocks suffering their worst day since the Covid pandemic in 2020.
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U.S. President Donald Trump's sweeping new tariffs have sparked outrage across the globe, from China and the EU to India, Canada and beyond.



Here's how the world's biggest economies are responding, from threats of countermeasures to warnings of a global trade war.

China

Beijing said it "firmly opposes" the new tariffs on its exports, and vowed "countermeasures to safeguard its own rights and interests."

Trump unveiled particularly stinging tariffs of 34% on China, one of its largest trading partners, while a 10% base tariff on all countries also applies. That comes on top of a 20% rate imposed last month.

The tariffs "do not comply with international trade rules," China's Commerce Ministry said.

It urged Washington to "immediately cancel" them, warning they "endanger global economic development."

European Union

The tariffs are a "major blow to the world economy," warned EU chief Ursula von der Leyen.

"There seems to be no order in the disorder. No clear path through the complexity and chaos that is being created as all U.S. trading partners are hit," she said.

After the 20% tariffs on EU exports to the United States, she said Brussels was "preparing for further countermeasures" but added it was "not too late to address concerns through negotiations."

Germany

The German Automotive Industry Association said the tariffs would "only create losers" and urged the EU to act "with necessary force, while continuing to signal its willingness to negotiate."

The German chemical industry, which counts the United States as its largest export market, urged the EU to "keep a cool head," stressing "an escalation would only worsen the damage."

Japan

Trade minister Yoji Muto said the 24% tariffs on Japanese exports to the United States were "extremely regrettable, and I have again strongly urged (Washington) not to apply them to Japan."

Japan's chief cabinet secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters the tariffs may contravene World Trade Organization rules and the pair's trade treaty.

India

Ajay Sahai, chief executive of the Federation of Indian Export Organizations, told AFP the tariffs will "hurt demand" for its exports.

"The tariffs slapped on India are definitely both high and higher than expected," he said.

But he said competitor nations like China and Vietnam had been hit harder, which opened up space for India to gain a market share.

U.K.

The U.K. will "remain calm, and committed" to sealing a trade deal with the United States which could help "mitigate" a 10% percent tariff imposed on British exports to the United States, business minister Jonathan Reynolds said.

However, "we have a range of tools at our disposal and we will not hesitate to act," he added.

France

President Emmanuel Macron will meet representatives of French sectors "impacted by the tariff measures," his office said.

Italy

Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni criticized the new U.S. tariffs on imports from the EU and urged a deal, warning a trade war would "inevitably weaken the West."

"The introduction by the U.S. of tariffs towards the EU is a measure that I consider wrong and that does not suit either party," she said.

Canada

Prime Minister Mark Carney warned the tariffs will "fundamentally change the global trading system."

"We are going to fight these tariffs with countermeasures. We are going to protect our workers," he said.

Brazil

Brazil's Congress approved a so-called "Economic Reciprocity Law" allowing the executive to respond to the 10% tariffs on exports from Latin America's biggest economy, which is the second-largest exporter of steel to the United States after Canada.

South Korea

"A global tariff war has become a reality," said acting president Han Duck-soo following Trump's 25% tariffs on imports from South Korea.

Han convened an emergency task force and vowed to mobilize "all government resources" to overcome the "trade crisis," urging ministers to minimize the damage through aggressive negotiations with Washington.

Australia

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese said the new tariffs were "not the act of a friend" and would hurt the close allies' relationship.

"These tariffs are not unexpected, but let me be clear: they are totally unwarranted," he said.

Switzerland

After Switzerland was hit with 31% tariffs, President Karin Keller-Sutter said the government would quickly decide on the next steps.

"The country's long-term economic interests are the priority. Respect for international law and free trade are fundamental," she said.

Poland

"Friendship means partnership. Partnership means really and truly reciprocal tariffs," said Prime Minister Donald Tusk.
VietBF@ Sưu tập

Vietnam has declared a two-day national mourning period from April 4 to 5 to honor the memory of Khamtay Siphandone, former President of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee, in recognition of the two countries' special relationship.

The national mourning announcement was released by the Communist Party of Vietnam Central Committee, the National Assembly, the State President, the Government, and the Vietnam Fatherland Front Central Committee.

During this time, government offices and public institutions nationwide, along with Vietnam's representative bodies abroad, will fly flags at half-mast with mourning bands as prescribed. Public entertainment and celebratory events will be suspended.


Former President of Laos, Khamtay Siphandone. Photo by VNA

Born on Feb. 8, 1924, Khamtay Siphandone, who also served as Lao State President, Prime Minister, Deputy Prime Minister, and Minister of National Defense, passed away at 10:30 a.m. on April 2.

A pioneering leader in the Lao revolutionary movement, he played a crucial role in securing the ultimate victory of the Lao revolution and guiding the country toward socialism. He was a close and trusted friend of Vietnam who made significant contributions to strengthening and developing the two countries' great friendship, special solidarity, and comprehensive cooperation.

His passing is an immense loss for Laos and the Vietnam – Laos relationship, according to the announcement.
VietBF@ Sưu tập

Vietnam needs proactive diplomacy and strategic import policy changes to navigate a 46% tariff on its exports to the U.S., says trade expert.


Vietnam’s key export sectors, including seafood, face mounting challenges following the U.S. tariff hike. Photo: Hoang Ha

In response to the U.S. government’s recent imposition of a 46% retaliatory tariff on Vietnamese exports, economic expert Dr. Le Quoc Phuong believes the Vietnamese government should push for further negotiations and show goodwill by reducing import tariffs on American goods to help balance bilateral trade.

‘We acted swiftly - but the U.S. acted even faster’

In an interview with VietNamNet, Dr. Le Quoc Phuong, former Deputy Director of the Center for Industry and Trade Information under the Ministry of Industry and Trade, shared his insights on the new U.S. tariff measures.

“The Trump 2.0 administration made it clear even before taking office that import tariffs would be a key policy weapon. True to form, President Donald Trump moved quickly after inauguration, issuing sweeping tariff hikes on goods from various countries,” Phuong explained.

The April 3 announcement marks the most aggressive move yet, applying new tariffs across all U.S. imports.

Vietnam is among the most affected, as the U.S. is its largest export market. In 2024, Vietnam exported nearly USD 120 billion worth of goods to the U.S., accounting for 29.5% of total export turnover. Meanwhile, imports from the U.S. remain relatively low, creating a large trade surplus. In that context, the U.S. decision was foreseeable - but the 46% rate still came as a shock.

Phuong noted that the Vietnamese government had been proactive. In mid-March, Minister of Industry and Trade Nguyen Hong Dien visited the U.S. as the Prime Minister’s special envoy, offering numerous commitments to boost American imports. Major Vietnamese conglomerates signed business agreements with U.S. firms totaling over USD 90.3 billion, scheduled for implementation starting in 2025.

On March 31, the Vietnamese government issued Decree No. 73 reducing import tariffs on several items, including U.S. goods like wood products, chicken, apples, cherries, LNG, ethanol, soybeans, and more.

On April 1, the Ministry of Industry and Trade formed a Drafting Committee to develop new regulations on Vietnam’s strategic trade control. A draft decree was published the same day to solicit feedback.

“These steps show the government’s urgency and resolve. But the U.S. acted faster,” Phuong remarked.

Most affected industries

The hardest-hit sectors will be those with the largest export volumes to the U.S. - electronics, phones, computers, and components, which are dominated by foreign direct investment (FDI) companies. Others include seafood, furniture, textiles, footwear, and agricultural products, all of which heavily rely on the U.S. market.

What Vietnam can do

Phuong stressed that Vietnam is not in a position to retaliate as aggressively as the EU, China, or Canada due to its smaller economy and deep dependence on the U.S. market.

“Negotiation is essential,” he said. “We should also consider further lowering import duties on U.S. goods - quickly. Since Vietnamese and American products are more complementary than competitive, the impact on domestic production would be minimal.”

Phuong argued that import tariff reductions, though costly in the short term, are a worthwhile sacrifice to reduce trade tensions. Supporting policies for affected Vietnamese businesses will also be key.

Survival strategies for Vietnamese businesses

Phuong emphasized that despite global instability, the U.S. remains an irreplaceable market for Vietnamese exporters. However, businesses now need to renegotiate with American partners so that both sides share the tax burden.

“If buyers stop importing, they’ll face production delays. But if they import without raising prices, Vietnamese suppliers can’t absorb the costs. The only solution is to sit down and negotiate mutually acceptable terms.”

Enterprises must accept that profit margins will shrink. In the meantime, they should streamline operations, cut costs, and conserve raw materials to stay afloat.

“I believe the U.S. is also watching how Vietnam responds. If we show good faith by reducing tariffs and increasing imports, Washington may lower the tariff in the future. The real question is: how far can we go?”


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The recently announced U.S. tariff hikes are poised to deliver a major economic blow to several Asian nations, many of which depend heavily on exports to the American market. Experts warn that these trade barriers could shrink national GDPs, disrupt supply chains, and push countries into rethinking their global economic strategies.

China
As the world’s second-largest economy, China is set to face a dramatic increase in trade friction with the United States. The newly implemented tariffs will soon push China’s overall tariff exposure to 54%, following an earlier 20% tariff announcement earlier this year.

When accounting for all contributing factors and categories, the average tariff on Chinese exports to the U.S. is expected to reach around 76%, according to Chad Brown, a senior fellow at the Peterson Institute for International Economics and former State Department chief economist during the final year of the Biden administration.

This sharp rise in trade barriers is estimated to cause a 0.27% contraction in China’s GDP, translating to a staggering $53 billion in economic losses, according to calculations by Professor Niven Winchester of Auckland University of Technology.

Experts like Ruby Osman from the Tony Blair Institute point out that while these tariffs will hurt Chinese firms, it is Trump’s broader trade policy across Asia that could pose the greatest long-term challenges.

In response to the tariffs, China’s Commerce Ministry issued a strongly worded statement urging the U.S. to reverse the decision and threatening reciprocal measures. The ministry emphasized that the move undermines years of balanced trade negotiations and ignores the significant benefits the U.S. has historically gained from free international trade.

Jens Eskelund, president of the EU Chamber of Commerce in China, observed that many multinational companies have already adapted their supply chains to navigate ongoing U.S.-China tensions. However, further restructuring in light of these tariffs would not be feasible in the short term.

While China may pivot to alternative markets to make up for lost U.S. demand, experts agree that no other country can rival the scale and purchasing power of the American consumer market, where Chinese firms have typically exported over $400 billion in goods annually.

Still, William Hurst, a professor at the University of Cambridge, downplayed the long-term effects, noting that U.S. exports now make up a smaller slice of China’s total trade. He added that the current situation might encourage China to deepen its trade relations with Europe, Southeast Asia, and Africa.

Vietnam
Vietnam is expected to take a heavier hit than China, with an estimated 46% tariff rate on exports to the U.S. This steep increase could inflict economic damage of nearly 1% of GDP, roughly $5 billion in losses. On a personal level, it equates to a loss of around $196 per household.

The United States imposed this level of tariff on Vietnam partly due to its growing trade imbalance with the country. In 2024, the U.S. trade deficit with Vietnam topped $123 billion, according to figures cited by the White House.

In response, Vietnamese officials called the tariffs “unfair,” pointing out that the average tariff rate Vietnam imposes on American imports is just 9.4%—far lower than what it now faces from the U.S.

Singapore
Despite being hit with a relatively low 10% baseline tariff, Singapore’s economy is expected to feel a disproportionate impact due to its unique status as a regional financial and export hub.

Singapore’s Trade Minister Gan Kim Yong expressed disappointment over the tariffs, especially given that Singapore holds a free trade agreement with the United States and actually runs a trade deficit with the U.S. In 2024, the U.S. enjoyed a $2.8 billion trade surplus with Singapore—a massive 85% jump from the year before.

Gan noted that the government is now reassessing its economic forecasts in light of the new trade environment. He expressed hope that diplomatic dialogue could resolve the situation, though he acknowledged that negotiations would be challenging without specific U.S. concerns to address.

Economists remain cautious about the scope of future tariffs, with analysts like Chua Hak Bin of Maybank warning that exemptions for key sectors like pharmaceuticals and semiconductors may not last. These industries are critical to Singapore’s manufacturing and export economy, and could be targeted later this year.

Trade policy expert Deborah Elms also raised concerns about the indirect effects of the tariffs, noting that Chinese firms pushed out of the U.S. market might flood other countries with low-cost goods, potentially igniting new waves of protectionism or retaliatory tariffs.

Other ASEAN Countries
Across the broader Southeast Asian region, the situation is similarly grim. According to DBS Bank economist Philip Wee, many emerging economies are being hit with reciprocal tariffs at alarmingly high rates.

Cambodia, which already struggles with high poverty rates (17.8% of the population lives below the poverty line), faces the steepest tariff rate in the region at 49%.

Laos follows closely with a 48% tariff, despite an 18.3% poverty rate and significant reliance on export-led growth.

Myanmar, grappling with the aftermath of a recent earthquake and years of civil conflict, is now burdened with 44% tariffs.

Indonesia, the largest economy in Southeast Asia, faces a 32% rate.

Thailand, the second-largest, will now contend with a 36% rate.

Economists from OCBC, including Selina Ling and regional experts Lavanya Venkateswaran, Ahmad A. Enver, and Jonathan Ng, warn that this may only be the beginning of a broader trade war. They expect that further negotiations, retaliatory measures, and policy escalations are likely in the months ahead.

Princeton's US grants frozen, follows Trump actions against other schools


A woman walks by Princeton University's Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs is seen in Princeton, New Jersey, Nov. 20, 2015. Photo by Reuters

Princeton University said on Tuesday the U.S. government froze several dozen research grants to the school, which became the latest academic institution targeted by the Trump administration in a crackdown on what it calls antisemitism on campuses.

Princeton President Chris Eisgruber said government agencies including NASA and the defense and energy departments notified the university of the move. The university said in a statement it was given no reason for the action and it did not provide a dollar value for the grants.

The Trump administration has threatened to slash federal funding for universities over their alleged tolerance of antisemitism and over accusations of failure to protect Jewish students during pro-Palestinian protests.

"We are committed to fighting antisemitism and all forms of discrimination, and we will cooperate with the government in combating antisemitism. Princeton will also vigorously defend academic freedom and the due process rights of this university," Eisgruber said in the statement.

A Department of Energy spokesperson said the agency "paused grant funding to Princeton University pending the completion of the Department of Education's investigation into Princeton regarding antisemitic harassment." The Education Department, last month, sent a letter to 60 universities, including Princeton, warning it could bring enforcement actions against them.

The other federal agencies had no immediate comment.

Protesters, including some Jewish groups, say President Donald Trump's administration wrongly conflates their criticism of Israel's military campaign in Gaza and advocacy for Palestinian rights with antisemitism and support for Hamas militants.

The latest bloodshed in the decades-old Israeli-Palestinian conflict was triggered in October 2023, when Hamas attacked Israel, killing 1,200 and taking about 250 hostages, according to Israeli tallies.

Israel's subsequent military assault on Hamas-governed Gaza has killed over 50,000 Palestinians, according to local health officials, while also triggering accusations of genocide and war crimes that Israel denies. The assault has internally displaced nearly Gaza's entire 2.3 million population and caused a hunger crisis.

The Trump administration is also reviewing $9 billion in federal contracts and grants awarded to Harvard University.

Last month, it canceled $400 million in federal funding for Columbia University, which had been the epicenter of pro-Palestinian campus protests.

Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents have detained some foreign student protesters in recent weeks and are working to deport them.

The Trump administration has also targeted schools over other culture war issues like diversity, equity and inclusion programs and suspended $175 million in funding to the University of Pennsylvania over transgender sports policies.

Rights advocates have also raised concerns about Islamophobia and anti-Arab bias. The Trump administration has not announced steps in response.

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Chinese EV maker Xiaomi said it would cooperate with a police investigation into a fatal crash involving one of its cars which had been in autonomous mode just before the accident.

Three college students died on Saturday night after their Xiaomi SU7 hit a concrete barrier on a section of the Dezhou-Shangrao Expressway in eastern Anhui province.

Before the crash, the vehicle was in Xiaomi's Navigate On Autopilot (NAO) assisted driving mode, traveling at 116 kilometers per hour (72 miles per hour), according to a company statement posted online.

While travelling on a highway section with roadworks, the vehicle detected an obstacle ahead, issued a warning, and handed control to the driver, Xiaomi said.

But seconds later, the vehicle hit a barrier at around 97 km/h.

Footage posted online showed a car in flames on the highway and later the burned-out wreckage.

Xiaomi founder Lei Jun said in a social media post late Tuesday that he was "heavy-hearted" and that his company would "continue to cooperate with the police investigation."

Since the crash, many online have questioned Xiaomi's assisted driving functions, why the car caught fire, and whether the doors could be opened in an emergency.

On the X-like Weibo, an account identified by the platform and local media as the driver's mother accused Xiaomi of failing to contact her and "not taking the lives of three kids seriously."

"As family members, we have many questions. Why did the vehicle catch fire after hitting the barrier?... We just want an explanation," the woman wrote.


A red button in a Xiaomi car that is supposed to enabled emergency door opening. Photo courtesy of Xiaomi

Xiaomi, a consumer electronics giant selling goods from smartphones to vacuum cleaners, launched the SU7 in March 2024 as it entered the auto sector.

It sold more than 200,000 units in its first year, with the standard model priced at around 210,000 yuan ($28,900).

The company's share price has fallen around 5% since the accident.

China's EV companies are world leaders in assisted driving technology. Xiaomi says cars using its intelligent driving system can overtake and change lanes on the highway, though it cautions that it is not a replacement for drivers.

Xiaomi said it had sent a team to investigate the crash and tried to contact the victims' families through local authorities.
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Lawyer reveals three major financial sources - including frozen accounts and seized assets - available for restitution in SCB bond scandal.


Defendant Truong My Lan. Photo: Nguyen Hue

In addition to her criminal sentence, Truong My Lan has been ordered to repay more than 30.092 trillion VND (approximately $1.22 billion USD) to victims and related parties, according to the first-instance verdict in the SCB bond fraud case (phase two). The question many are asking is: Where will this massive sum come from?

At the ongoing appeals trial in Ho Chi Minh City, lawyer Giang Hong Thanh - defending Truong My Lan - shared insights with VietNamNet about the financial sources currently available for restitution.

Over 24 trillion VND already secured

According to Official Letter No. 1948/CTHADS-NV2, issued by the Ho Chi Minh City Civil Judgment Enforcement Department on March 24, 2025, there are three primary sources of money identified:

Over 8.659 trillion VND already sits in enforcement accounts or frozen bank accounts.

More than 15.383 trillion VND is owed to Truong My Lan by various individuals and organizations.

In total, more than 24.043 trillion VND in liquid and receivable assets have been tracked so far.

Additional assets worth over 10 trillion VND

The court also ordered the seizure of various shares and real estate assets belonging to Truong My Lan, valued at over 10 trillion VND, to ensure compliance with the verdict.

Another significant source is the 15.712 trillion VND associated with the An Dong bond issuance, which has been partially disbursed to six financial institutions. If fully recovered under Articles 106 (Criminal Procedure Code) and 47 (Penal Code), this amount could significantly accelerate compensation to victims.

Lawyer Giang Hong Thanh estimates that these three sources combined may exceed 50 trillion VND (over $2 billion USD), enough to cover all restitution claims if properly recovered.

Lan challenges court findings but vows to repay

At the appeals hearing, Truong My Lan reaffirmed her disagreement with the life sentence issued by the lower court. She maintained that she had no intent to defraud and pledged to repay all legitimate bondholders.

Lan specifically objected to the claim that she used deceptive tactics to issue 25 bond codes through four VTP Group subsidiaries: An Dong, Sunny World, Quang Thuan, and Setra. She insisted that 1.612 trillion VND related to bonds issued by SHB Bank should be excluded, claiming that SHB, not she, was responsible for that amount.

While the court holds her liable for over 30 trillion VND, Lan contends that her responsibility lies with about 28 trillion VND. Additionally, she noted that while 25,000 bondholders have requested repayment, over 10,000 have not, and asked the court to clarify this discrepancy.

Lan has requested the court and prosecutors mandate other individuals and organizations that benefited from the fraudulent bonds to cooperate in repaying affected citizens.
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Mica David Bass, 58, was wanted by U.S. authorities for murder. He fled to Vietnam and was captured just a day later by the police.



On March 28, the Immigration Department of the Ministry of Public Security announced that it had coordinated with relevant units to hand over Mica David Bass to the U.S. for further legal action.

Previously, on March 19, the Immigration Department received information that Mica David Bass had entered Vietnam. The suspect was a dangerous criminal being pursued by U.S. law enforcement for murder.

The Immigration Department immediately assigned its officers to investigate and locate the suspect. Thousands of incoming passengers were reviewed through surveillance cameras, and they eventually discovered that the suspect had moved into the city center. Meanwhile, another team identified a potential hotel address in Hoan Kiem District where the suspect might be staying.

At 11:45 p.m. on the same day, officers saw a man resembling Mica David Bass dining at a restaurant in central Hoan Kiem District. He later moved to a hotel in Hang Bac Ward. The officers secretly monitored his movements throughout the night, waiting for the right moment to arrest him. "The police couldn’t make an immediate arrest because the area was crowded, with many foreign tourists. Additionally, the suspect was very dangerous, having committed criminal offenses, used illegal weapons, and had a history of resistance," an official from the Immigration Department said.

On the morning of March 20, the police noticed the suspect preparing to leave and formulated a plan to apprehend him. Around 10 a.m., the operation team from the Immigration Department, along with other units, successfully arrested the suspect at the hotel.


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