US Nears Southeast Asia Trade Deals Amid Tariff Concerns

The United States, represented by Trade Representative Jamieson Greer, is working to finalize trade deals with more Southeast Asian countries in the coming months to address concerns over US tariffs impacting the export-reliant ASEAN economies. Tariffs ranging from 10% to 40% have been imposed on ASEAN nations, with Vietnam, the world's sixth-largest exporter to the US, potentially losing $25 billion annually due to a 20% tariff, making it the worst-affected in the region. While Indonesia and Vietnam have secured agreements with the US for lower tariffs, the ASEAN bloc may seek a more unified stance, especially with threats of steep tariffs on semiconductors—a key industry for Thailand, Malaysia, and Vietnam. ASEAN ministers also plan to leverage the US-Asean Trade and Investment Framework Agreement (TIFA) to discuss trade growth and regional security, while Washington looks for ASEAN commitments to limit Chinese transshipments. These developments come amid preparations for US President Donald Trump's upcoming visit to Kuala Lumpur during the ASEAN summit, emphasizing ongoing efforts to balance trade interests and regional cooperation.