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Trump tariffs on North America hint at first stirrings of what’s to hit South-east Asia

Notwithstanding short-term gains, the export-dependent region is likely to face an economic blow from a broader trade war, analysts say

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Goh Ruoxue

Goh Ruoxue

Published Thu, Feb 27, 2025 · 05:00 AM
    • A worker selects avocados at a packing plant in Mexico. End-users in the automotive, agri-commodities, energy and packaged foods sectors would be hardest hit by heavier price tags, says Boston Consulting Group.
    • A worker selects avocados at a packing plant in Mexico. End-users in the automotive, agri-commodities, energy and packaged foods sectors would be hardest hit by heavier price tags, says Boston Consulting Group. PHOTO: AFP

    VIETNAM, Thailand and Malaysia could soon feel the brunt of escalating trade tensions as US President Donald Trump’s tariff moves on its two largest trading partners mark the opening act of a gathering storm.

    While the North American levies in themselves will not have a dramatic impact on South-east Asia directly, pundits cautioned against secondary shockwaves percolating through the US and warned of disrupted trade flows dampening regional growth.

    These tariffs are but the first chapter in a broader “America First” policy, said Aparna Bharadwaj, global leader for the global advantage practice at Boston Consulting Group (BCG).

    Asean BusinessUS tariffsDonald TrumpMexicoCanadaTariffsSouth-east Asia

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