ASEAN Faces a Tougher Balancing Act in US and China Trade Relations
Kristina Fong Siew Leng
ASEAN countries find themselves in a more delicate position trying to address US concerns while maintaining favourable relations with China.

Kristina Fong Siew Leng
ASEAN countries find themselves in a more delicate position trying to address US concerns while maintaining favourable relations with China.
John Lee
In the ensuing Sino-US trade war, China, to use Trump’s lingo, has more cards to play than its economic rival.
Nick J. Freeman
The US has reduced its overseas assistance to Laos significantly. At a time when other countries are following suit, Vientiane will be hard-pressed to find alternatives.
Deasy Pane|Siwage Dharma Negara
As trade policy takes a volatile turn under the US leader, ASEAN can seize the moment to diversify global partnerships and assert a stronger voice in the international trade order.
Surachanee Sriyai
The repercussions of the US’ funding freeze on foreign assistance resonate deeply in Southeast Asia, including in one of the countries where press freedom and independent reportage are most threatened.
Daljit Singh
Interpreting the US’ intentions for East and Southeast Asia, given the uncertainty unleashed by the present American leadership, is challenging but necessary. At stake is nothing less than the region’s strategic balance.
Nguyen Hong Thach
Vietnam has in the past embraced reform under pressure. The Trump tariff shock should spur reforms, particularly in reducing non-tariff barriers.
The State of Southeast Asia Survey 2025
Sharon Seah|Eugene R.L. Tan
Despite some apprehension about its actions, Beijing continues to retain considerable weight among Southeast Asian elites. This should improve if China learns to temper its assertiveness, particularly in the South China Sea.
Nick Bisley
Fulcrum editor William Choong discusses Australia’s strategic choices amid intensifying Sino-US rivalry and increased geopolitical flux with Prof Nick Bisley.
Stephen Olson
Trump’s “Liberation” day tariffs will hit Southeast Asia hard. Countries can hold firm and adopt appropriate countermeasures, or cut “deals” in order to reduce or eliminate the tariffs. Neither option bodes well.