Hanoi, June 1 -- Speaking in response to reporters' questions about the decision by the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) to initiate a Section 301 investigation into certain aspects of Viet Nam's IP protection and enforcement regime, Pham stressed that the Southeast Asian country's position and efforts on IP protection had already been outlined in statements issued on May 1 and May 14.

She noted that the Section 301 investigation is a procedure under U.S. law and said the issues raised would continue to be addressed through bilateral consultations and exchanges during the course of the investigation.

Viet Nam and the U.S. have maintained close communication on the matter, with the U.S. side acknowledging Viet Nam's policy ...