U.S. President Donald Trump has told Vietnam’s top leader that he will “instruct the relevant agencies” to remove Vietnam from a list that restricts access to advanced U.S. technologies. The announcement was made by the Vietnamese government on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
Vietnam has been on a restricted list that limits its ability to purchase or access certain high-end American technologies. These restrictions have affected cooperation in areas such as advanced electronics, defense-related equipment, and other sensitive technologies.
The statement came after President Trump met Vietnam’s top leader, Mr. Lam, at the White House on Friday, February 20, 2026. This was their first in-person meeting. Mr. Lam had traveled to Washington to attend the inaugural meeting of President Trump’s newly formed “Board of Peace.”
During their talks, the two leaders discussed strengthening ties between the United States and Vietnam. Removing Vietnam from the restricted technology list would mark an important step in improving bilateral relations and expanding cooperation in trade, technology, and strategic sectors.
Experts say that if the decision is implemented, it could open new opportunities for Vietnam’s technology industry and boost economic ties between the two countries. It would also signal a shift in U.S. policy toward Vietnam, reflecting closer diplomatic and economic engagement.