Geopolitical advantages might make Vietnam wealthy

The tensions between the United States and China could prove beneficial in Hanoi

A city street in Pleiku, Vietnam
A bustling city center in Pleiku, Vietnam
(Image credit: Maika Elan/Bloomberg via Getty Images)

The United States and China have seen their relationship continue to sour as the two countries compete on the global stage. But while the superpower pair seeks to edge each other out in a race to own the next decade, there is a third party that could benefit most of all: Vietnam. 

The Southeast Asian country has historically struggled economically, but there have been signs over the past few years that change might be beginning. Vietnam had the 35th-largest economy in 2023, according to the International Monetary Fund, and its poverty rate has been shrinking at a rapid pace.

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Justin Klawans, The Week US

 Justin Klawans has worked as a staff writer at The Week since 2022. He began his career covering local news before joining Newsweek as a breaking news reporter, where he wrote about politics, national and global affairs, business, crime, sports, film, television and other Hollywood news. Justin has also freelanced for outlets including Collider and United Press International.