Prime Minister of Malaysia Anvar Ibrahim said that global trade is increasingly becoming an instrument of pressure in the context of geopolitical competition, and called on the member states of the Southeast Asian states (ASEAN) to jointly protect the principle of multilaterality.
Speaking at the opening of the 58th meeting of the heads of the Foreign Ministry of the ASEAN countries in Kuala Lumpur, he emphasized: “Strength has always influenced trading. But now it is increasingly becoming a determining factor. The tools previously used to stimulate growth are now used for pressure, isolation and restrictions.”
According to him, tariffs, export restrictions and investment barriers turn into means of geopolitical struggle. Although he did not directly mention the new American duties, Enver called on the countries of Asean to act together against such threats and strengthen trade inside the bloc to reduce dependence on the external powers.
It is expected that from August 1, six ASEAN countries will be under the influence of new American tariffs. Earlier, US President Donald Trump published letters with new duties against 14 states, including Malaysia, Indonesia, Thailand, Cambodia, Myanmar and Laos. He warned that in case of response measures, the fees would be increased, but did not rule out the possibility of new agreements. “If they come with a different proposal, and I will like it, we will make a deal,” he concluded.