On April 2, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump once again shook the global stage by announcing a new tariff policy targeting several key trading partners. Of particular concern was the decision to impose high import tariffs on goods from ASEAN countries.
This move, framed as part of a "reciprocal tariffs" policy, aims to balance the U.S. trade deficit and protect domestic industries.
With the new tariffs set to take effect on April 9, 2025, ASEAN countries now face significant challenges in maintaining economic and trade stability.
Background on U.S. Tariff Policy
Protectionist trade policies have been a hallmark of the Trump administration. The "America First" principle has underpinned U.S. foreign and trade policies since 2016.
This time, ASEAN is in the crosshairs, with Trump citing the region as a haven for Chinese companies seeking to evade earlier U.S. tariffs. Many factories and supply chains were relocated to Southeast Asia following the U.S.-China trade war.
Trump described the new tariffs as a matter of fairness:
"We’re only asking for fairness. If they impose high tariffs on our products, we will do the same," he declared during his Liberation Day speech on April 2, 2025.
This policy was formalized through Executive Order 14256, titled "Regulating Imports with a Reciprocal Tariff to Rectify Trade Practices that Contribute to Large and Persistent Annual United States Goods Trade Deficits.
" The document states that large and persistent trade deficits have weakened the U.S. manufacturing base and created excessive dependence on foreign nations, which are considered a significant threat to the U.S. economy and national security.
Also read: ASEAN Solidarity: 7 Powerful Ways Southeast Asia Stands United Against Global Crises
ASEAN Countries and Imposed Tariffs
The following is a list of ASEAN countries affected by the new U.S. tariffs, based on various sources:
| Country | New U.S. Tariff Imposed |
| Cambodia | 49% |
| Vietnam | 46% |
| Thailand | 36% |
| Indonesia | 32% |
| Malaysia | 24% |
| Philippines | 17% |
| Singapore | 10% |
Economic Impact on ASEAN
These high tariffs pose a serious threat to ASEAN exports to the U.S. Industries such as electronics, textiles, footwear, and automotive manufacturing are heavily reliant on the American market.
In Indonesia, for example, the electronics and textile sectors are expected to come under significant pressure, while Vietnam, which has long served as an alternative global manufacturing hub, will also be heavily impacted.
This situation could lead to a decline in trade volume, reduced labor efficiency, and currency devaluation. Additionally, foreign investors may begin to question the region's stability unless strategic policy responses are introduced.
Also read: U.S. Sanctions Thai Companies Over Sensitive Goods Exports to Russia
ASEAN’s Response and Strategies
Several countries are already taking steps to adapt. Vietnam and Malaysia are strengthening bilateral cooperation with the European Union and China to seek alternative markets. Indonesia is working to enhance the value-added content of its exports, aiming to move beyond raw material exports.
On the diplomatic front, ASEAN is being encouraged to present a unified stance through platforms like the ASEAN Summit and ASEAN-U.S. Dialogue. A coordinated diplomatic strategy is essential to urge the U.S. to reconsider policies that could jeopardize long-term partnerships.
Also read: U.S. Travel Restrictions and Their Impact on Southeast Asia
Future Prospects and Challenges
In the short term, economic pressure will be difficult to avoid. However, in the long run, this could serve as a turning point for ASEAN nations to reduce dependency on the U.S. market and strengthen regional integration.
Initiatives like the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and opportunities from BRICS membership could open new doors.
Nevertheless, Indonesia and other ASEAN countries must carefully manage diplomatic relations. Maintaining strong ties with the U.S. remains crucial, especially as the dollar continues to dominate global trade.
Hence, a foreign policy grounded in the principle of “independent and active” diplomacy remains essential.
Also read: Asia Under Fire: How Trump's Trade Tariffs Hit Southeast Asian Economies
Navigating the Road Ahead
The new U.S. tariffs on ASEAN countries highlight the increasingly complex nature of global trade dynamics. ASEAN nations must remain united and adaptable—both diplomatically and economically.
Regional collaboration, market diversification, and industrial innovation are vital strategies to ensure the region remains competitive and resilient amid global uncertainty.
