China
Southeast Asia Caught in the Crosshairs of the US–China Trade Conflict
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto emphasized ASEAN’s unity for effective diplomacy with larger powers. Meanwhile, Southeast Asia faces economic challenges from cheap Chinese goods and potential EU regulations affecting palm oil industries.
ASEAN’s Collective Diplomatic Role
Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim recently highlighted the significance of unity within ASEAN as a means of elevating the region’s voice on the global stage. At a media conference in Langkawi, President Prabowo emphasized that only through strong cooperation among ASEAN nations can they gain consideration from larger global powers.
One pressing concern for both Malaysia and Indonesia is the impact of proposed EU sustainability regulations on their palm oil industries. As President Prabowo pointed out, the EU is currently the only major power mentioned in their discussions, signifying the urgency of addressing these regulatory challenges.
Moreover, Southeast Asia faces additional economic pressures beyond EU regulations. The potential influx of inexpensive Chinese goods, intensified by geopolitical tensions and tariffs imposed by the U.S., is creating unease among local policymakers. In response, ASEAN nations are considering protective measures, including significant tariffs on Chinese imports, to safeguard their domestic markets.
Source : Southeast Asia in the crossfire of the US–China trade war
