DTI chief to meet Asean counterparts over Trump tariffs

MANILA, Philippines - Trade Secretary Ma. Cristina Roque is set to meet on April 10 with her counterparts in the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (Asean) to hammer out a possible united response to the hefty tariffs slapped by US President Donald Trump.

“Let’s see what we can agree on there and see what we can do to be able to work hand in hand as Asean (members),” Roque told reporters on the sidelines of the National Food Fair at the SM Megamall.

On Wednesday, Trump's punishing tariffs on dozens of economies came into force, including over 100 percent on China.

READ: Trump presses on with 104% tariffs on China

Manufacturing powerhouses in Southeast Asia that have large trade surpluses with the United States were slapped among the highest rates.

Cambodia, which produces apparel for global brands, was hit with a 49-percent tariff, followed by Laos, 48 percent, Vietnam, 46 percent and Thailand, 36 percent.

Indonesia got 32 percent, Malaysia, 24 percent; Brunei, 24 percent; Philippines, 17 percent and Singapore, 10 percent.

According to the US Trade Representative (USTR) office, trade in goods between the Philippines and the United States reached approximately $23.5 billion in 2024.

US exports to the Philippines totaled $9.3 billion, showing a modest increase of 0.4 percent, or $38.8 million, from 2023.

Meanwhile, US imports of goods from the Philippines - mainly electronics and agricultural products - amounted to $14.2 billion, reflecting a 6.9 percent rise, or $912 million, compared to the previous year, giving the Philippines a modest trade surplus with the United States.

When asked about what her recommendations would be, Roque said she believes the most effective approach would be to pursue negotiations aimed at reducing the tariffs.

However, she also emphasized the importance of identifying potential opportunities that may arise from the current situation.

“Now, the tariff rates we are subjected to are low compared to, let’s say, dried mangoes. Our main competitor is Cambodia. But Cambodia is subjected to a tariff rate of 49 percent. So, that’s a major edge for us,” she said.

Roque said the Philippine government was also actively pursuing free trade agreements with several countries to enhance its overall trade position.

“There are a lot of countries we are looking at. There’s South America, there’s the Middle East, there’s Asia and so many others, especially for products that are in demand like what we have,” said Roque.

(2025/04/09-17:06)