On November 25, 2020, the Office of the U.S. Trade Representative (USTR) issued a Federal Register notice announcing that it will hold a virtual public hearing on December 29, 2020, in its ongoing investigation into Vietnam’s currency valuation.  See Update of October 6, 2020.  A written request to appear at the hearing must be submitted no later than December 10, 2020, and must include a summary of the testimony.  USTR is specifically interested in testimony regarding:

  • Whether Vietnam’s currency is undervalued, and the level of the undervaluation.
  • Vietnam’s acts, policies or practices that contribute to undervaluation of its currency.
  • The extent to which Vietnam’s acts, policies or practices contribute to the undervaluation.
  • Whether Vietnam’s acts, policies and practices are unreasonable or discriminatory.
  • The nature and level of burden or restriction on U.S. commerce caused by the undervaluation of Vietnam’s currency.
  • The determinations required under section 304 of the Trade Act, including what action, if any, should be taken.

The hearing “will not involve testimony regarding specific products or services that might be affected by an action in the investigation.”  If necessary, the USTR will offer another opportunity for public comment should it later consider actions affecting specific products or services.  After the hearing, the USTR will accept rebuttal comments until January 7, 2021, which will be limited to raising “errors of fact or analysis” in any written submissions or hearing testimony.

All written submission must be filed via the Federal eRulemaking portal at www.Regulations.gov on docket number USTR–2020–0037.