Politics

Vietnam welcomes conclusion of negotiations on ASEAN–China free trade pact upgrade

Vietnamese authorities are actively carrying out domestic procedures in accordance with national regulations for the signing of the upgraded ASEAN–China Free Trade Area (ACFTA), scheduled for October in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia.

Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang at the regular press briefing on May 29 afternoon. (Photo: VNA)
Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang at the regular press briefing on May 29 afternoon. (Photo: VNA)

Hanoi (VNA) – Vietnam welcomes the conclusion of negotiations on the upgrade of the ASEAN–China Free Trade Area (ACFTA) to version 3.0, according to Spokesperson of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Pham Thu Hang at the ministry's regular press briefing on May 29 afternoon.

She described the outcome as a significant milestone, underlining the strong commitment of both bloc member states and China to ensuring that the ACFTA remains relevant, forward-looking, and resilient in the face of global challenges.

The upgraded version, known as ACFTA 3.0, is expected to deliver added value by incorporating new sectors such as the digital economy, green economy, and supply chain connectivity.

The diplomat noted that Vietnamese authorities are actively carrying out domestic procedures in accordance with national regulations for the signing of the upgraded protocol. The signing is anticipated to take place during the 28th ASEAN–China Summit, scheduled to be held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, in October this year./.

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