But Lin said that if negotiations with the US do not yield meaningful tariff reductions, ASEAN countries would need to further diversify their export markets.
She said that many are already doing so, with China remaining a critical partner, especially for countries like Cambodia, Laos and Myanmar, which have limited US trade exposure.
However, closer economic alignment with China depends on how well these countries’ exports match Chinese demand.
Beyond China, the EU, India, the Gulf States, and deeper intra-ASEAN trade represent key alternatives, according to Lin.
“Strengthening the implementation of the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership (RCEP) and…