ASEAN Expresses 'Concern' Over US Tariffs, Commits to No Retaliation
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations expressed concern over U.S. tariff policy but said it wants to pursue diplomacy and not "impose any retaliatory measures."
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ASEAN is "deeply concerned" over the introduction and subsequent suspension of tariffs by the U.S., which will cause "uncertainty" and bring "significant challenges to businesses," the April 10 statement said. "The unprecedented imposition of tariffs by the U.S. will disrupt regional and global trade and investment flows, as well as supply chains, affecting businesses and consumers worldwide."
The tariff whiplash also will impact "economic security and stability," affecting the livelihoods of millions of South East Asian people and "hinder economic progress" in ASEAN countries, particularly its "less developed economies," the bloc said.
Despite these concerns, the countries emphasized the group's "common intention to engage in a frank and constructive dialogue with the U.S. to address trade-related concerns." It said that "open communication and collaboration" will enhance the relationship between the U.S. and ASEAN, and "in that spirit," the group "commits to not impose any retaliatory measures in response to the U.S. tariffs."