(The 46th ASEAN Summit, including the ASEAN-GCC-China Summit, held from 26-27 May 2025 in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, witnessed the Leaders agreeing to strengthen economic cooperation and prevent agreements with the United States on tariffs from harming ASEAN Member States)

From 26-27 May 2025, in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, the 46th ASEAN Summit took place, including the ASEAN-GCC-China Summit, to strengthen economic cooperation in the context of increasing global trade tensions. According to Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim of Malaysia – this year’s ASEAN Chair, the Leaders agreed that any bilateral agreement with the US on tariffs must not harm the common interests of the 10 ASEAN Member States. This is a strong move to protect the bloc’s value chain and exports, especially when the US threatens to impose heavy tariffs of 32–49% on six ASEAN countries if no trade agreements are reached.

During this Summit, the Malaysian Prime Minister also emphasized the importance of balanced relations with both the US and China, aiming at sustainable growth for the region. China pledged to support through major investment projects, supply chains and finance; while the GCC Council – which includes several major oil exporters – also expressed interest in strengthening ties with ASEAN. A joint statement was also issued on promoting economic cooperation, identifying the goal of building stable multilateral trade, reducing risks from protectionist policies, and expanding investment cooperation among the three parties. This is considered an important initial step for ASEAN to increase its internal strength and resilience to global market fluctuations.

Sources:
- Reuters: "ASEAN leaders agree tariff deals with US should not harm members"
- AP News: "ASEAN opens summit with Persian Gulf nations and China…"
- Financial Times: On China-ASEAN and GCC cooperation