Hanoi: Counterfeit goods and online piracy continue to operate widely in Vietnam even as the country faces growing pressure from the United States ahead of a possible tariff action. Investigations by Reuters found that fake luxury products and pirated entertainment content remain easily available in several parts of the country despite repeated government crackdowns.
The issue has become a major concern in trade discussions between Washington and Hanoi. The United States recently accused Vietnam of failing to do enough to stop intellectual property violations. American officials warned that stronger trade measures could follow if the situation does not improve in the coming weeks.
One of the main areas highlighted in the Reuters investigation was the Ninh Hiep wholesale market near Hanoi. The market has long been known for selling imitation fashion products. During visits to the market this month, Reuters journalists reported seeing fake branded clothing, shoes, handbags, and accessories openly displayed for customers.
Vendors reportedly admitted that many of the products were copies of international brands such as Gucci, Calvin Klein, Ralph Lauren, Gap, and Alo Yoga. Some sellers said the goods were brought from factories in China, while others claimed they were produced locally inside Vietnam.
Shop owners also said that police raids happen from time to time, but the business quickly returns to normal after inspections end. According to some traders, counterfeit goods are hidden temporarily during raids and then brought back for sale later.
The United States Trade Representative recently placed Vietnam in its most serious category for intellectual property concerns. It was the first time in more than a decade that any country had received this classification. American officials argued that counterfeit trade and online piracy have reached worrying levels and are hurting global businesses.
Online piracy has become another major issue in the dispute. The United States has pointed to several streaming websites believed to operate from Vietnam that illegally distribute movies, television shows, and sports broadcasts to viewers around the world. Some of these websites reportedly continue to function despite official announcements about stricter enforcement.
Vietnamese authorities have responded by launching a nationwide campaign against piracy and fake products. The campaign began earlier this month and involves customs officials, police, and market inspectors. The government has ordered tighter checks on imported goods and stronger action against copyright violations.
Officials in Hanoi have defended the country’s efforts and said Vietnam is committed to improving intellectual property protection. The government has also asked the United States to make what it called a fair and balanced assessment of the situation.
Trade experts say the dispute comes at a sensitive time for Vietnam’s economy. The United States is one of Vietnam’s biggest export markets, buying large amounts of electronics, clothing, furniture, and other manufactured products each year. At the same time, America’s trade deficit with Vietnam has continued to grow rapidly.
According to recent trade data, the United States recorded a trade deficit of more than 54 billion dollars with Vietnam during the first three months of 2026. American officials have repeatedly said they want to reduce trade imbalances while also protecting intellectual property rights for global companies.
Analysts believe Vietnam now faces a difficult challenge. The country wants to maintain strong trade relations with the United States while also dealing with a large informal market where counterfeit products remain highly profitable and widely available.
For now, businesses in markets such as Ninh Hiep appear to be operating much as before, even as the deadline for possible American trade action draws closer.