US Hits Vietnam With Third Investigation as Trade Pressure Grows

The US has launched a third trade investigation into Vietnam’s handling of intellectual-property rights, as the Trump administration turns up the pressure on the export-reliant nation.

The Office of the US Trade Representative announced Friday the probe will look into Vietnam’s acts and policies surrounding IP protection and enforcement and “assess their impact on US commerce.” US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer plans to consult with President Donald Trump if “responsive action” is needed, a process that could take months.

The investigation, which is being carried out under Section 301 of the Trade Act, opens the door to new tariffs ...