Southeast Asia feels pressure to choose sides in rivalry

Southeast Asian nations are increasingly feeling the pressure to choose sides in the growing rivalry between the United States and China. This concern was highlighted during a recent hearing of the US-China Economic and Security Review Commission. Experts suggested that the US should adopt a targeted approach, focusing on specific sectors to influence the region before China does. Lynn Kuok from the Brookings Institution noted that many Southeast Asian countries are reluctantly accepting the need to choose sides on certain issues. Meanwhile, Prashanth Parameswaran from the Wilson Center argued that Washington should emphasize "swing sectors"—like artificial intelligence and telecommunications—rather than just focusing on "swing states," which are countries that haven’t firmly aligned with either superpower. Vietnam's approach to semiconductors was cited as a specific example of a nation making strategic, sector-specific choices. Vikram Nehru from Johns Hopkins University urged the US to leverage its strengths in service and high-tech industries, including advanced chip manufacturing. Kuok also highlighted the opportunity for the US to support Southeast Asian countries in upholding international law. Despite the growing pressure to align with either the US or China, she emphasized that Southeast Asia should not be forced to choose between the two. Under President Biden, the US has aimed to enhance ties with the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) by emphasizing the region's importance. However, a recent survey indicated that China has become the preferred partner for Southeast Asia for the first time. Experts warned that the US could lose ground if it doesn't implement strategic changes. Gregory Poling from the Center for Strategic and International Studies stressed the importance of maintaining a strong presence in Southeast Asia, arguing that recent actions by the Trump administration jeopardize America's standing in the region. The USCC continues to monitor the implications of the US-China relationship on national security.