Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim has rallied Southeast Asian nations to present a unified front following sweeping U.S. tariffs exceeding 45% on key ASEAN exporters. "We must stand firm together as ASEAN – with a population of 640 million and economic strength among the world's top," Anwar declared on Monday, emphasizing collective action at a pivotal moment for the trade-dependent region.
The new tariffs announced last week hit Vietnam's exports with 46% duties and Cambodia’s garment sector with 49%, while Malaysia faces 24% levies. ASEAN economic ministers will convene Thursday to coordinate responses, with Malaysia leveraging its 2024 ASEAN chairmanship to foster consensus.
"Our task is to harmonize national positions while advancing as a group," Anwar stated, highlighting Southeast Asia's combined $3.6 trillion GDP. Trade Minister Tengku Zafrul Aziz reinforced the non-confrontational approach: "Two wrongs don’t make a right. Escalation helps no one in this interconnected economy."
The development underscores ASEAN's delicate balance between major powers, as regional exporters account for 8.5% of U.S. merchandise imports. Analysts note the bloc’s response could influence supply chain realignments and foreign investment flows across electronics, textiles, and renewable energy sectors.
