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  • About AmCham Vietnam - Our History and Milestones

The American Chamber of Commerce in Vietnam (AmCham Vietnam) is a leading business association that promotes trade, investment, and economic cooperation between the United States and Vietnam.

Our Founding and Early Days

AmCham Vietnam was re-established in Ho Chi Minh City on March 4, 1994, shortly after U.S. President Bill Clinton lifted the U.S. trade embargo on Vietnam on February 3, 1994. This milestone marked a historic turning point in bilateral relations and opened new opportunities for American businesses in Vietnam.
Initially, AmCham Vietnam was formed informally by American business representatives committed to strengthening economic ties and creating a platform for dialogue between the U.S. and Vietnamese business communities.

Official Recognition and Government Licensing

On January 22, 1998, the Government of Vietnam issued Decree No. 08/1998/ND-CP, establishing regulations for the formation of foreign business associations in Vietnam.

Following this decree, AmCham Vietnam’s Board of Governors submitted a formal application for recognition. On September 19, 1998, AmCham received License No. 02/GP/HHND/HCM from the People’s Committee of Ho Chi Minh City, officially recognizing it as a Foreign Business Association in Vietnam.

AmCham Vietnam’s headquarters is located in the New World Hotel, Ho Chi Minh City, serving as a hub for U.S. businesses, policymakers, and professionals active in Vietnam’s fast-growing market.

Expansion Across Vietnam

Building on its early success, AmCham Vietnam expanded its presence nationwide:

* The AmCham Hanoi Branch, established in 2001, supports the interests of American and Vietnamese businesses in the capital.
* AmCham Da Nang Branch, officially formed in 2020, extends AmCham’s reach to Central Vietnam.

License Renewals and Continued Operations

AmCham Vietnam’s master license has been extended multiple times, most recently until September 19, 2024.
The Da Nang Branch license has also been extended concurrently until September 19, 2024.

License renewal requests for the Hanoi Branch were submitted in September and October 2021, and the most recent renewal for that branch was effective until September 19, 2021.

AmCham Vietnam continues to work closely with Vietnamese authorities to ensure compliance and to maintain its active role in advancing U.S.–Vietnam trade relations.

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