Can Southeast Asia turn its economic weight into real power?

"As global trade tensions rise, ASEAN faces a challenge: how to benefit from the US and China without picking sides. It is the world's fifth-largest economy, with a combined gross domestic product of more than $3.6 trillion dollars. The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) brings together 11 states, representing nearly 700 million people. As a fast-growing hub for trade, manufacturing and supply chains, ASEAN is a vital partner for both China and the United States."

"The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) brings together 11 states, representing nearly 700 million people. As a fast-growing hub for trade, manufacturing and supply chains, ASEAN is a vital partner for both China and the United States. However, Donald Trump's tariffs on some of its members have raised concerns about whether Washington has turned its back on the region. These come as Beijing has doubled down on its efforts to expand its influence."

ASEAN is the world's fifth-largest economy with a combined GDP of more than $3.6 trillion and nearly 700 million people across 11 states. ASEAN serves as a fast-growing hub for trade, manufacturing and supply chains and functions as a vital partner for both China and the United States. Rising global trade tensions force ASEAN to navigate benefits from both major powers without taking sides. Donald Trump's tariffs on some ASEAN members have raised concerns about Washington distancing itself from the region. Beijing has doubled down on efforts to expand its influence throughout Southeast Asia. Meanwhile, Trump has sanctioned Russian oil companies, and Africa pursues stronger anti-money-laundering efforts.

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