Exports beat expectations in January, posting a seventh straight monthly rise, according to figures released on Tuesday.
For smaller nations such as the Philippines threatened by US President Trump's tariffs, their more logical recourse should be to look elsewhere for new markets for their affected export products as well as other suppliers for their vital imports.
Southeast Asian nations are increasingly interested in the BRICS association, aiming to diversify their diplomatic and economic partnerships. But this potentially challenges ASEAN's unity and centrality. While Malaysia, Thailand and Vietnam see benefits in terms of economic growth, trade diversification, and access to the New Development Bank, the move could also lead to marginalisation and disadvantages for ASEAN countries not included in BRICS. Given potential complications for ASEAN trade commitments, this could shift the region's geopolitics as Western nations may perceive the alignment as move towards China and Russia.
Lao Prime Minister Sonexay Siphandone met with leaders of the Vietnam Rubber Group (VRG) in Ho Chi Minh City on February 22, urging the company to expand its investment in industrial rubber processing in Laos.
The ASEAN Future Forum 2025, scheduled for February 25-26 in Hanoi, will highlight the value of sustainability and circularity in supply chains to address global challenges such as climate change and resources depletion.
Indonesia has been exploring new export destinations beyond the US and plans to accelerate trade negotiations in anticipation of new US tariffs.
Malaysia may lead the admission of Timor-Leste into ASEAN in 2025, despite challenges like undeveloped social and economic systems and concerns over the nation's growing ties with China. Timor-Leste stands to gain from greater regional integration and economic diversification if it can leverage foreign partnerships, strengthen its institutions and implement required legislation, drawing on ASEAN's successful transformation of geopolitical challenges into economic and political growth.
<p>Time: November 2025<br /> By: WTO and International Trade Group, Legal Department – VCCI</p>
