Asia prepares for potential shifts in U.S. policy under Trump’s second term
Donald Trump’s return to the White House raises questions about his approach to the Asia-Pacific region. His first term was marked by withdrawing from multilateral trade agreements and imposing tariffs on China, which he plans to continue. Experts suggest his administration may be more prepared but unpredictable.
Trump's trade policies could impact Asian economies, as he aims to impose high tariffs on Chinese goods and may pressure other countries to diversify away from China. This could complicate trade for nations like South Korea and Japan, which are heavily reliant on trade.
In terms of security, Trump may engage with authoritarian leaders and expect allies to contribute more financially. His focus on bilateral ties over multilateral agreements could leave Asian countries vulnerable, while traditional allies might seek to strengthen their own defenses amid uncertainty.