ASEAN countries choose dialogue over retaliation amid US tariff moves

The member states of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) have decided not to impose retaliatory actions following the US decision to introduce tariffs on imported goods. This was confirmed in a joint statement issued by the economic ministers of ASEAN member countries.

“We express our collective intention to engage in frank and constructive dialogue with the United States to address trade-related concerns. Open communication and cooperation will be critical to ensuring balanced and sustainable relations. Based on this, ASEAN commits to refraining from taking any measures in response to US tariffs,” the statement, published on the association’s official website, said.

On April 2, US President Donald Trump announced the imposition of tariffs on goods from 185 countries and territories, with Russia not included in the list. A general tariff of 10% took effect on April 5, while individual tariffs were enforced starting April 9. Additionally, the US administration introduced a 25% tariff on all imported vehicles, effective April 3. In light of the economic situation, Trump also declared a state of emergency in the country.

On April 9, President Trump revealed that he was suspending the additional import tariffs, which had been implemented on a reciprocal basis, for a period of 90 days for a number of countries and territories. During this period, a "universal tariff of 10%" would be applied instead. Simultaneously, Trump increased tariffs on Chinese goods to 125%. The White House explained that this pause in tariff implementation was aimed at facilitating ongoing trade negotiations.

ASEAN countries have been impacted by some of the highest tariffs, particularly Cambodia (49%), Laos (48%), Vietnam (46%), Thailand (36%), Indonesia (32%), and Malaysia (24%), which have all faced significant tariff increases due to these measures.

By Tamilla Hasanova