'Phl among Asian countries less vulnerable to Trump 2.0'

The Philippines is one of emerging Asian economies less likely to be significantly affected by US president-elect Donald Trump's proposed tariffs on imports, according to the UK-based think tank Pantheon Macroeconomics.

- By LOUELLA DESIDERIO

In its Emerging Asia Outlook for the first half of 2025 report, Pantheon Macroeconomics chief emerging Asia economist Miguel Chanco said significant parts of the region are considered highly exposed to the threat of tariffs on all US imports, with economies such as Taiwan, Thailand and Vietnam being particularly vulnerable.

"That said, emerging Asia isn't homogeneous, with its domestic demand-driven demographic giants -India, Indonesia and the Philippines-offering potential refuge in the event of a new trade war," he said.

Earlier, Trade Undersecretary Ceferino Rodolfo said the Department of Trade and Industry is hopeful that a second Trump presidency will be net positive for the Philippines, citing US-Philippines trade ties and Trump's actions during his first term, including welcoming a bilateral free trade agreement.