Asean seeks to strengthen US economic ties amid tariffs

Asean has reiterated its commitment to multilateral trade principles and does not plan to retaliate against US tariff actions.

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Commerce Minister Pichai Naripthaphan said Asean member states and Timor-Leste convened a special virtual meeting of economic ministers to discuss a coordinated response to the US's reciprocal tariff measures announced on April 5.

The meeting emphasised the importance of maintaining robust trade and investment flows in the region and protecting global supply chains, particularly for small and medium-sized enterprises and the agricultural sector.

The ministers agreed to issue a joint Asean economic ministers’ statement, reaffirming Asean’s role as a “comprehensive strategic partner” of the US and calling for constructive dialogue under the Asean-US Strategic Trade and Investment Partnership.

The goal is to de-escalate trade tensions and seek balanced, long-term solutions that benefit both sides.