HANOI, Vietnam: Vietnam is set to fast-track licensing for Elon Musk's Starlink satellite internet service, while also exploring ways to increase imports from the U.S. to ease trade tensions, Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh said over the weekend.

Speaking at a meeting in Hanoi with nearly 40 U.S. businesses, Chinh said the government was working to rebalance its trade surplus with the U.S. through increased purchases of aircraft, arms, liquefied natural gas, agricultural goods, and pharmaceuticals.

Vietnam has been cautious about foreign control of sensitive industries, including telecommunications. However, in February, the country's parliament approved a temporary scheme allowing satellite internet providers like Starlink to operate while maintaining full local control—a key condition set by Musk.

"The PM has directed the Ministry of Science and Technology to quickly issue a license to Starlink internet (services) on a trial basis," the government said in a statement.

The shift marks a departure from Vietnam's traditionally restrictive stance, indicating a willingness to embrace foreign investment in the tech sector.

Vietnam is under pressure to address its growing trade surplus with the U.S., which hit record levels in 2023. President Donald Trump has warned of possible tariffs on Vietnamese exports, prompting Hanoi to explore large-scale import deals with American companies.

Among the key measures being considered:

Aircraft purchases: Vietnam Airlines signed an $11 billion deal with Boeing in 2023 to purchase 50 Boeing 737 MAX jets. The government is now discussing potential price reductions on these planes. Meanwhile, low-cost carrier VietJet is moving forward with a previously signed deal to buy 200 Boeing aircraft.

Energy imports: Vietnam has expressed interest in buying U.S. liquefied natural gas (LNG) to support its expanding LNG industry.

Defense acquisitions: Hanoi has discussed military purchases, including Lockheed Martin C-130 Hercules transport planes.

A U.S. official at the meeting expressed optimism that these discussions "will hopefully solve some pending issues" for American businesses operating in Vietnam.

Chinh's meeting with U.S. businesses is part of a broader effort to reassure foreign investors as Vietnam navigates global trade uncertainties. Additional meetings with foreign businesses are expected in the coming days.

While Vietnam has outlined multiple strategies to address its trade imbalance, no major deals have yet been finalized. Officials remain hopeful that negotiations with U.S. firms will lead to concrete agreements in the near future.