US Tariffs on Singapore Disappointing; Situation Needs Rational, Pragmatic Approach, Says WP

The move by US President Donald Trump to impose a blanket tariff rate of 10 per cent on Singapore is disappointing, said the opposition Workers' Party.

- Ng Wei Kai

What is needed is a rational and pragmatic approach to deal with the unfolding situation, at both the international and domestic level, it added.

In a statement on Facebook on April 8, the WP said unilateral sanctions imposed on Singapore by the US adversely affect bilateral ties, and no response should be ruled out.

It added that while the Government exercises restraint in reacting to US tariffs, it should immediately start bilateral talks.

The WP said: "We believe that no response should be ruled out, given the unprecedented nature of the act.

"Singapore must reserve its right to turn to relevant dispute settlement mechanisms, such as those outlined in the US-Singapore Free Trade Agreement or the World Trade Organisation."

Singapore should also tap its existing ties with other branches of the US government and business associations to argue its case, it added.

It must also take advantage of the combined Asean economy to negotiate collectively with the US to increase relevance and leverage, the WP said.

Singapore must also further strengthen regional trade ties within Asean as well as larger trade blocs of which it is part of, such as the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership or Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership.