The European Free Trade Association (EFTA) and Vietnam are scheduled to sign a free trade agreement in Hanoi on Sunday, marking the conclusion of negotiations that began in 2012 and resumed last year amid rising global trade tensions. The EFTA group, comprising Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein, reached a final accord with Vietnam in July.
The agreement, which covers key trade issues such as rules of origin, investment, intellectual property rights, competition policies, trade remedies, and government procurement, is expected to deepen economic ties between Vietnam and the EFTA member states. Swiss Economy Minister Guy Parmelin, who currently holds Switzerland’s rotating presidency and is on an official visit to Asia, will attend the signing ceremony. Norwegian officials confirmed that State Secretary Astrid Bergmal will also be present.
The timing of the deal has attracted attention due to the recent detention of three activists, including a Norwegian citizen, Nguyen Duc Thuan, on terrorism-related charges in Vietnam. The individuals—Nguyen, Australian citizen Ho Pham Hiep Huy, and Vietnamese national Thai Cong Truong Son—were arrested by Vietnamese authorities on September 18 while allegedly attempting to cross illegally from Cambodia into Vietnam. Vietnamese officials described them as members of Viet Tan, a US-based pro-democracy group that Vietnam designates as a terrorist organization.
Norway has stated it will raise the case with Vietnamese authorities during the signing event, with the foreign ministry emphasizing that the situation is being treated as a "high priority" amid rising public concern. The Norwegian government has expressed hope that the matter can be resolved swiftly.
Meanwhile, Viet Tan and multiple international human rights organizations have disputed the official account, asserting that the three activists were abducted in Cambodia rather than apprehended while crossing the border. Cambodia’s Ministry of Interior has denied involvement, stating no records indicate the activists either departed the country or were arrested by Cambodian authorities. Human Rights Watch and other groups have called for the immediate release of the detained individuals, highlighting fears over their treatment and the legality of their detention.
Despite the controversy, Vietnamese officials have indicated that the situation will not delay the planned signing of the trade agreement. Vietnam’s foreign ministry had not responded to requests for comment at the time of reporting, while representatives in Hanoi confirmed the finalization of the deal and the impending ceremony.
The new free trade pact is expected to enhance cooperation and economic integration between Vietnam and the EFTA countries, contributing to Vietnam’s broader agenda of expanding trade partnerships amid shifting global economic dynamics.