A new survey reveals heightened anxieties in Southeast Asia over US geopolitical influence, with 51.9% of respondents identifying Washington's leadership under former President Donald Trump as their top concern in 2026. The State of Southeast Asia: 2026 Survey Report, released this week, highlights a 5% year-on-year increase in apprehension, driven largely by economic factors.
Economic Tools Drive Apprehension
43.4% of ASEAN residents cited US sanctions, tariffs, and trade measures as primary concerns—a 21.3% surge since 2025. Vietnam (60.6%), Timor-Leste (60.0%), and the Philippines (50.0%) showed the strongest unease, while Cambodia (34.2%) and Indonesia (33.3%) also ranked trade policies among top issues.
Regional Calls for Balanced Engagement
The report urges Washington to strengthen ties with ASEAN by adhering to international law, noting that economic strategies now overshadow traditional security debates. Analysts observe this shift reflects growing regional prioritization of supply chain stability and equitable trade practices.
