Asean seeks constructive dialogue with US, will not retaliate against tariffs

Grouping says it will focus on deepening regional trade integration

- Lu Wei Hoong

KUALA LUMPUR - Asean will not take any retaliatory measures in response to US tariffs, the regional grouping's economic ministers said in a joint statement after their meeting in Malaysia on April 10.

The 10-nation group, which was unexpectedly hit hard by the reciprocal tariffs announced by US President Donald Trump on April 2, emphasized its commitment to pursue a "frank and constructive dialogue" with Washington to address trade-related concerns, amid the ensuing uncertainty.

"We express our common intention to engage in a frank and constructive dialogue with the US to address trade-related concerns. Open communication and collaboration will be crucial to ensuring a balanced and sustainable relationship.

"In that spirit, Asean commits to not impose any retaliatory measures in response to the US tariffs," the statement read.

The special Asean economic ministers' meeting was chaired by Malaysian Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry Tengku Zafrul Aziz.

Asean also expressed its support for the World Trade Organisation as the primary platform for dialogue, highlighting its role in preventing escalating trade tensions and promoting cooperative, rules-based solutions.

At the Asean economic ministers' meeting, the grouping said it would focus on deepening regional trade integration through an upgrade of the Asean Trade in Goods Agreement and the Asean Digital Economy Framework Agreement.