BANGKOK, April 18 — During his working visit to Thailand, Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim took a firm yet thoughtful stand on behalf of ASEAN, reminding the world that this regional bloc values unity, fairness, and mutual respect in trade.
Speaking at a press conference in Bangkok, Anwar made it clear that ASEAN firmly rejects the United States’ move to impose unilateral tariffs — a decision he says runs against the spirit of multilateral cooperation.
“These are not just numbers on a spreadsheet,” Anwar said, his tone resolute. “These tariffs affect people — workers, families, small businesses across Southeast Asia. That’s why ASEAN is standing together. We believe in fair trade and open dialogue, not one-sided actions.”
Anwar shared that he had meaningful discussions with Thai Prime Minister Paetongtarn Shinawatra during the visit. Among the key topics was the impact of the new tariffs introduced by US President Donald Trump under the “Reciprocal Trade and Tariffs Policy.”
Behind the scenes, ASEAN trade and finance ministers are already working hard, preparing for talks and pushing back diplomatically against what they see as an unfair move.
“ASEAN’s position is clear and united,” Anwar said. “We support multilateralism. We do not accept the imposition of unilateral tariffs — it contradicts everything we’re working towards as a regional community.”
In a show of broader solidarity, Anwar also highlighted the shared views of ASEAN’s key partners. Japan’s Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and New Zealand’s Prime Minister Christopher Luxon echoed ASEAN’s concerns and agreed that dialogue with the US is the best way forward.
While tensions may be high, ASEAN and Malaysia have decided against retaliatory measures. Instead, they are banking on diplomacy and collective strength.
For context, the tariffs introduced on April 3 hit some ASEAN nations hard. Countries like Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, and Myanmar are facing effective duties as high as 49 per cent. Even Malaysia and Brunei weren’t spared, with each facing 24 per cent tariffs.
At present, the tariffs are under a 90-day suspension — except those targeting China. But for ASEAN, the message is clear: unity, fairness, and dialogue must prevail over division and economic aggression.
