ASEAN, Gulf, China Summit Amid US Tariff Threats

ASEAN, Gulf Nations, and China Hold Summit Amid US Tariff Threats

Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia – A significant three-way summit involving the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN), six Persian Gulf countries (the Gulf Cooperation Council – GCC), and China kicked off today in Kuala Lumpur, aiming to bolster economic engagement and build resilience in the face of a volatile global trading system, particularly in light of threatened US tariff hikes.

The inaugural trilateral meeting, attended by Chinese Premier Li Qiang, signals a strategic move by the trade-dependent economies to diversify their partnerships and insulate themselves from potential economic shocks. This comes as US President Donald Trump has threatened sweeping tariffs, with some ASEAN members facing potential duties as high as 32% to 49%. While a 90-day pause on tariffs was announced in April for most of the world, and a similar deal struck with China this month, concerns remain high.

Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, opening the ASEAN-GCC summit earlier today, emphasized the crucial role of stronger inter-regional collaboration in navigating an increasingly complex global landscape marked by economic uncertainty and geopolitical challenges. “I believe the ASEAN-GCC partnership has never been more important than it is today,” Anwar stated.

China, already ASEAN’s top trading partner, is keen to reinforce its image as a reliable economic ally. Premier Li Qiang echoed the sentiment of strengthening cooperation, stating that this three-way collaboration would benefit all sides and contribute to regional economic development and peace. The GCC, comprising oil-producing nations like Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates, is a significant energy supplier to China and a growing trade partner for ASEAN.

Analysts suggest this summit underscores Beijing’s efforts to strengthen support amidst its ongoing trade competition with the United States. While ASEAN has traditionally maintained a neutral stance between Beijing and Washington, the unpredictability of US trade policies is prompting these nations to explore broader economic networks.

The leaders are expected to discuss expanded trade ties, cross-regional investment, and ways to enhance their collective resilience against external economic pressures. The move highlights a concerted effort by these blocs to forge a more connected, resilient, and prosperous future, even as the global trading system continues to be strained by protectionist measures.