Bold, independent coverage of Malaysian politics, business and current affairs.
The Philippines is working to reduce a 12.5% US tariff on its exports by showcasing stronger enforcement against forced labour, with officials expressing optimism about negotiations with American trade authorities.
Australian PM Anthony Albanese has pledged to directly challenge President Trump over new US tariffs hitting Australian exports at 12.5%, arguing the trade barriers are unjustified given Australia's strict modern slavery protections.
Canada inaugurated the Gordie Howe International Bridge without US participation as trade tensions escalate, with President Trump imposing 50% tariffs on Canadian goods and renegotiating the bridge's profit-sharing terms.
Vietnam's Foreign Ministry has pushed back against US tariff decisions, asserting the country has comprehensive measures to eliminate forced labour and fully complies with international labour standards.
The United States has imposed a 12.5 per cent tariff on about one-third of Singapore's exports, affecting goods deemed to potentially involve forced labour. The move signals escalating trade friction affecting the entire Southeast Asian region.
President Trump has threatened to impose significant tariffs on the European Union, citing what he describes as unfair fines against major US technology companies including Apple, Meta, Amazon and Google.
Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim has committed to sustained negotiations with the United States regarding a 10 per cent tariff imposed on Malaysia, signalling the government's determination to resolve the trade dispute through diplomatic channels.
Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney announced that negotiations with US President Donald Trump will be accelerated following new American tariff threats on Canadian exports including dairy, beverages, and vehicles.
South Korea's National Security Adviser Wi Sung-lac insists a data privacy dispute with e-commerce giant Coupang poses no threat to the bilateral relationship with the United States, despite growing friction over the investigation.