Singapore is negotiating concessions for pharmaceutical exports to the U.S. while ensuring it still has access to high-end AI chips from the American market, said Trade and Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong.
Asian economies geared for exports and facing some of the highest US “reciprocal” tariffs are leading the way over their western counterparts in trade negotiations with the Trump administration.
As the threat of United States reciprocal tariffs creates an uncertain future for Malaysia and the world, the government aims to strengthen ties with Europe, says Liew Chin Tong.
U.S. tariffs will have multiplier effects that will "generate a broader negative income and demand shock to the Singapore economy", the Monetary Authority of Singapore said in its macroeconomic review released on Monday.
Thailand faces a severe trade challenge following the US announcement of 36 per cent tariffs on Thai goods. The Shinawatra government's dual strategy — appeasing Washington while courting Beijing — has backfired, alienating Western trade partners following the deportation of 40 Uyghurs to China. With its export-driven economy threatened and auto manufacturing in decline, Thailand must balance diplomatic relations and pursue structural reforms to survive mounting trade pressures.
Asean has reiterated its commitment to multilateral trade principles and does not plan to retaliate against US tariff actions.
The Malaysian delegation, led by Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz, told US trade representatives that Malaysia is open to talks on reducing the trade deficit, addressing non-tariff barriers, improving technological security, and exploring a potential trade agreement.
Thailand may need at least 500 billion baht (US$15 billion) for economic stimulus measures to address the impact of US tariffs, its finance minister said on Wednesday.
<p>Time: November 2025<br /> By: WTO and International Trade Group, Legal Department – VCCI</p>
