Swedish Embassy Hosts Dezan Shira & Associates for Business Fika on Tariff Risks

On June 6, the Swedish Embassy in Vietnam hosted a Business Fika at the Ambassador’s residence in Hanoi, bringing together Swedish companies for a timely discussion on trade tensions and tariff risks in the region. The event coincided with Sweden’s National Day and was part of the embassy’s ongoing Business Fika series aimed at strengthening dialogue between Swedish firms and expert voices on the ground.

Two Hanoi-based representatives from Dezan Shira & Associates, Hoa Nguyen and Dan Martin, were invited to present at the session. Hoa, from the firm’s Business Intelligence team, kicked off the discussion with a snapshot of current tariff developments, including proposed changes in U.S. policy and Vietnam’s possible responses. Dan Martin, International Business Advisor, delivered a forward-looking presentation outlining four possible scenarios for how the situation could unfold: a full 46 percent tariff imposed on Vietnam, a phased or sector-specific rollout, a negotiated truce with partial relief, and a no-escalation outcome in which current conditions remain unchanged. He also offered practical insights on how companies can prepare proactively rather than scramble to react.

“This was a chance to walk through some of the major policy shifts under discussion and give companies a structured way to think through their next steps,” Martin said. “Rather than scramble to respond, businesses can map out options early and stay one step ahead.”

The presentation also touched on regional diversification, supply chain planning, and Vietnam’s positioning in a more fragmented global trade environment.

The embassy’s “Business Fika” series combines policy-focused discussions with a Swedish tradition – the fika – an informal coffee break meant to foster open conversation and build relationships.

Further Reading:

• Vietnam-Sweden Trade Overview
• Selling to Vietnam’s Market: Frequently Asked Questions
• Vietnam’s Textile Sector Amid US Tariff Pressures: Risks and Opportunities