Canada is seeking to finalize a free trade deal with Southeast Asian nations as part of a push to expand into new markets, its top diplomat said, responding to the hefty tariffs imposed on it by the United States, its neighbor and largest trade partner.
AMM-58 is the largest gathering of ASEAN foreign ministers and senior diplomats from around the world to discuss pressing global and regional issues, promote cooperation, and advance the security and sustainability agenda in ASEAN.
The US accounts for 18% of Thailand's exports. If the 36% rate is implemented, exports to the US could fall to 10% of the total, weakening bilateral trade relations over the long term.
By the 2030, the Government aims for 80% of households to live within a 10-minute walk of an MRT station, strengthening Singapore’s commitment to sustainable urban mobility.
The event was part of activities by the ASEAN Committee in Santiago (ACS), with participation from the embassies of Indonesia, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand, and Vietnam.
Under the “Liberation Day Tariffs” announced by US President Donald Trump on April 2, ASEAN countries face tariffs ranging from 10 per cent to 49 per cent.
The forecast was made following the strong economic performance of the country in the second quarter.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently defended President Donald Trump’s tariff letters sent to ASEAN leaders, saying that Washington was only seeking a trade rebalancing and would remain open for negotiations.
<p>Time: November 2025<br /> By: WTO and International Trade Group, Legal Department – VCCI</p>
