Southeast Asia Faces Rising Tensions with U.S. Tariffs and South China Sea

A new survey shows the U.S. overtaking China as the region's preferred partner, despite concerns over Trump's policies and economic pressures.

The ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute survey reveals a divided outlook on U.S. engagement under Trump's administration, with mixed expectations of increased or reduced involvement.
Trump's recent announcement of a 10% tariff on all U.S. imports, with higher duties on Southeast Asian countries, raises economic concerns for the region's export-reliant industries.
Hostilities in the South China Sea remain Southeast Asia's top geopolitical concern, cited by 51.6% of survey respondents.
The U.S. has surpassed China as the preferred alignment choice in the region, despite anxieties surrounding Trump's unpredictability and policies.
Japan continues to be the most trusted major power, with 66.8% of respondents expressing trust, while calls for ASEAN unity to counter external pressures gain momentum.