United Nations Secretary-General António Guterres' spokesperson Stéphane Dujarric has amplified global concerns over escalating trade tensions, stressing that "in a trade war, nobody wins." The remarks come as tariff disputes reshape supply chains and threaten post-pandemic economic recovery across Asia and beyond.
Dujarric emphasized the disproportionate impact on developing nations, stating that "the most vulnerable countries are least equipped to cope with cascading effects" of restricted market access and inflationary pressures. Analysts note that Asian economies heavily reliant on exports—particularly Southeast Asian manufacturing hubs—face heightened risks as geopolitical friction disrupts established trade flows.
Recent data from the World Trade Organization shows a 12% year-on-year increase in trade-restrictive measures among G20 nations through Q2 2024. The UN's intervention follows controversial tariff announcements on clean energy technologies and semiconductors, key growth sectors for Asian markets.
"Multilateral dialogue remains our strongest tool," Dujarric asserted, urging nations to leverage platforms like APEC and the WTO. The call for cooperation resonates with Asian business leaders advocating stable conditions for cross-border investment in green infrastructure and AI development.
