Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim Addresses Trade Threats at ASEAN Meetings
Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim highlights the risks of U.S. tariffs on Southeast Asia, urging ASEAN unity to counter trade weaponization and enhance regional trade.
Subscribe to unlock this story
We really don't like cutting you off, but you've reached your monthly limit. At just $5/month, subscriptions are how we keep this project going. Start your free 7-day trial today!
Get StartedHave an account? Sign in
Overview
- Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim warns ASEAN about the impact of U.S. tariffs during recent foreign minister meetings.
- He calls for ASEAN collaboration to mitigate trade threats and promote intra-regional trade.
- Concerns over potential U.S. tariffs have raised alarms among ASEAN leaders about a possible trade war.
- Six ASEAN nations may face increased tariffs on exports to the U.S. due to rising tensions.
- In response to economic challenges, Malaysia's central bank has cut interest rates for the first time in five years.
Report issue
Read both sides in 5 minutes each day
Analysis
Center-leaning sources frame the narrative around escalating U.S. tariffs as a significant threat to Southeast Asia's trade stability. Both emphasize the urgency for ASEAN unity and proactive measures, reflecting a cautious perspective on global trade dynamics. Implicitly, they convey concern over external pressures impacting regional economies.
"Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim warned Wednesday that global trade is being weaponized as Southeast Asia’s foreign ministers opened an annual meeting ahead of the looming threat of U.S. trade tariffs."
ABC News"This is no passing storm; it is the new weather of our time."
Associated PressArticles (3)
FAQ
Six ASEAN nations are at risk of facing increased U.S. tariffs on their exports due to rising trade tensions and potential trade weaponization.
ASEAN, led by Malaysian PM Anwar Ibrahim, is urging regional unity and collaboration to counter trade weaponization and mitigate the risks posed by U.S. tariffs, while also promoting enhanced intra-regional trade to strengthen economic resilience.
In response to economic challenges including trade tensions, Malaysia's central bank cut interest rates for the first time in five years to support the domestic economy and stimulate growth.
Despite the trade tensions and moderated growth in early 2025, Southeast Asia's trade is expected to continue growing moderately, supported by intra-regional trade which accounts for nearly 60% of the region's total exports, and economic growth projected around 4.7% in 2025 driven by domestic demand and key sectors like electronics and tourism.
Geopolitical tensions, including US tariffs and global supply chain adjustments, have led to a realignment of ASEAN trade, with shifts towards intra-regional trade and stronger ties with Asia-Pacific partners, as well as a decrease in exports to the US and EU in certain subregions.
History
- This story does not have any previous versions.