Non-tariff barriers like export restrictions continue to be a challenge for boosting intra-Asean trade which has remained largely stagnant for over 25 years, economists said on Thursday.
The 19th-century British Prime Minister Lord Palmerston once said: “We have no eternal allies, and we have no perpetual enemies. Our interests are eternal and perpetual, and those interests it is our duty to follow.” That, in essence, lies at the heart of today’s trade tensions.
The 46th Asean Summit, under Malaysia's chairmanship, has reaffirmed the bloc's commitment to navigating an increasingly complex global landscape, championing unity, economic resilience and principled diplomacy.
Thai PM orders urgent review after US court blocks Trump’s sweeping tariffs, freezing 36% duties that threatened exports. With a White House appeal looming, Bangkok braces for trade fallout amid mounting uncertainty in Thailand’s top export market.
Talking about Vietnam’s role within the bloc, the PM noted that he maintains regular contact with Vietnamese leaders to exchange views on ASEAN-related issues, including the US’s new tariff policy and the situation in Myanmar.
US court suspends Trump tariffs; the Chamber of Commerce says there is no impact on orders. The Thai National Shippers’ Council warns the appeal could drag on to the Supreme Court.
In a significant stride toward regional economic integration, China and members of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations have completed negotiations on an upgraded free trade agreement, doubling down on efforts to promote inclusive and sustainable growth.
In an era marked by intensifying geopolitical rivalries, global economic fragmentation, and technological decoupling, the recently concluded Asean-GCC-China Economic Summit in Kuala Lumpur was more than just another multilateral gathering.