ASEAN ministers reject US tariff retaliation

Trade ministers of the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) convened virtually on April 10 to discuss a united response to reciprocal tariffs imposed by US President Donald Trump.

The ministers rejected retaliatory action against the US tariffs, opting instead for "frank and constructive dialogue" to prevent mounting trade tensions.

The US tariffs, which range from 10% for Singapore to 49% for Cambodia, have been described by ASEAN as "unprecedented" and disruptive.

The Philippines faces a 17% tariff increase, which Trade Secretary Cristina Aldeguer-Roque believes may benefit Philippine exports, particularly coconut products, due to a higher tariff imposed on competitor Thailand.

Roque emphasized the importance of ASEAN solidarity and stated that the Philippines will listen to its partners' proposals before deciding on its direction.

While ASEAN partners meet, individual countries have begun seeking compromises with the US directly.

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