US Warns of Possible Steeper Tariffs on ASEAN Nations if Talks Fail

KUALA LUMPUR, Sept 25 — The United States has cautioned that steeper tariffs may be imposed on certain ASEAN nations if ongoing negotiations fail. US trade representative Jamieson Greer said discussions are focused on securing favourable trade deals, but tariffs remain an option if no agreement is reached. He highlighted the complexity of the global semiconductor industry, stressing the need to strengthen US supply chains while acknowledging Southeast Asia’s role as a vital source.

US dangles Tariffs Again

Currently, Malaysian semiconductor exports are exempt from a 19% tariff, though they remain under review under Section 232 of the Trade Expansion Act. Last month, US tariffs hit ASEAN peers, with Cambodia, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Thailand facing 19%, and Laos and Myanmar 40%.

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