During a late-November 2025 state visit to Vietnam by Brunei’s Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkiah, leaders from both nations agreed to deepen political trust and facilitate trade and investment cooperation across multiple sectors, with bilateral trade performance already exceeding US$670 million in 2024, which is up sharply year-on-year. Both sides pledged to pursue enhanced connectivity, promote agri-food and Halal industry links, and expand cooperation in fisheries, oil and gas services, education, and people-to-people exchange.
Moreover, both countries also highlighted support for more streamlined customs procedures and trade facilitation measures to support businesses on both sides. Finally, the joint emphasis on trade facilitation and diversified cooperation areas like digital economy and green transitions points to broader regional alignment that could help U.S. businesses navigate ASEAN integration frameworks.
Closer Brunei–Vietnam trade and investment linkages could influence regional supply chains that U.S. multinational firms rely on, particularly in sectors like energy, halal foods, and agricultural products where U.S. firms also compete or partner regionally. Second, as Vietnam increasingly integrates with global markets, including a strong and growing trade relationship with the United States, expanding Brunei links could offer indirect benefits for U.S. firms engaged in Vietnam or broader ASEAN trade networks.
