ASEAN Seeks Dialogue Over U.S. Tariffs, Rules Out Retaliation Amid Trade Strain

Southeast Asian countries are calling for constructive talks with the United States to address concerns over newly imposed tariffs, while choosing not to pursue retaliatory measures, according to ASEAN economic ministers.

This comes after U.S. President Donald Trump imposed steep tariffs of 32% to 49% on six of nine ASEAN nations before announcing a temporary 90-day pause in implementation. By comparison, the European Union, Japan, and India were hit with lower rates of 20%, 24%, and 27% respectively.

In a joint statement released Thursday, ASEAN ministers emphasized the need for “frank and constructive dialogue” with the U.S., aiming for a fair and sustainable trade relationship. They also reaffirmed their commitment to a rules-based global trading system.

Philippine Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque, speaking at a special virtual session, welcomed the tariff suspension but emphasized the need for a full impact assessment of its consequences on the region.

To strengthen ties with Washington, ASEAN plans to leverage existing frameworks like the Trade and Investment Facilitation Agreement (TIFA) and the Expanded Economic Engagement (E3) Workplan. The bloc also intends to explore new trade deals to bolster supply chain resilience and widen market access.

Roque added that ASEAN remains focused on finalizing two key trade pacts this year: the ASEAN Trade in Goods Agreement (ATIGA) Upgrade and the ASEAN Digital Economy Framework Agreement.

Comprising 10 member nations, ASEAN ranks as the world’s fifth-largest economy and remains export-driven, making U.S. tariff policies critical to its economic outlook.