ANDRIEVSKII.CH | October 22, 2026
Liechtenstein and Vietnam have marked a milestone in their bilateral relations with the signing of two major agreements during Prime Minister Brigitte Haas’s official visit to Vietnam from 17 to 19 October 2026. The EFTA free trade agreement and the bilateral double taxation agreement establish, for the first time, a comprehensive framework for trade, investment and closer economic cooperation between the two countries.
In Hanoi, Haas signed the free trade agreement between the European Free Trade Association (EFTA) states and Vietnam on behalf of Liechtenstein. She also signed the bilateral double taxation agreement with Vietnamese Finance Minister Ngo Van Tuan.
A Stronger Framework for Business
The two agreements complement each other. The free trade agreement reduces tariffs and other trade barriers, improves market access for services and investment, and facilitates the deployment of skilled professionals. The double taxation agreement prevents double taxation, reduces withholding taxes and gives businesses and investors greater legal certainty and a more predictable basis for planning.
“With these two agreements, we have opened a new chapter: we are creating a reliable framework that will enable Liechtenstein companies to make effective use of their strengths in one of Asia’s most dynamic markets,” Prime Minister Haas said.
Together, the agreements create opportunities for both countries to expand trade and mutual investment, support economic growth and promote sustainable development.
“For Liechtenstein’s highly export-oriented economy, Vietnam offers new opportunities as one of the fastest-growing markets in Southeast Asia,” Haas added. She highlighted Vietnam’s potential as a production base, a growth market and a gateway to other markets in the region.
Strengthening Bilateral Relations
Beyond their economic significance, the agreements formed part of a broader effort to strengthen political ties with a strategically important partner in Southeast Asia. During her visit, Haas held bilateral talks with President To Lam, Prime Minister Le Minh Hung, Minister of Industry and Trade Le Manh Hung, and National Assembly Chairman Tran Thanh Man.
The discussions focused on deepening bilateral relations, implementing and making effective use of the two agreements, and exploring new trade and investment opportunities. They also addressed open, rules-based markets and resilient supply chains.
Other topics included current international developments, strengthening multilateralism, climate and sustainable development, and international cooperation on financial and tax matters.
Meeting Liechtenstein Companies in Vietnam
Direct engagement with Liechtenstein companies operating in Vietnam was another important part of the visit. Haas met representatives of Hilti Vietnam and Oerlikon Balzers and visited Oerlikon Balzers’ coating facility in Hanoi.
These exchanges highlighted how Liechtenstein companies are already contributing to Vietnam’s industrial development and the additional potential the new agreements could unlock.
Source: www.llv.li
Aleksei Andrievskii | Advisory Board Member, Bendura Bank AG | Liechtenstein