Please Sign in to view recently saved searches.
Home
Media
Trade Information
Southeast Asia Responds to Global Shifts: Resilience, Reform, and Outreach
08 Apr 2025
Southeast Asia Responds to Global Shifts: Resilience, Reform, and Outreach
Keywords
As the global trade landscape undergoes fresh shocks - from new U.S. tariffs to evolving consumer expectations - Southeast Asian economies are showing remarkable adaptability. Here's a snapshot of key policy updates and economic signals from the region
Vietnam's Strong Start: Q1 GDP Grows 6.93%
Vietnam's economy expanded by 6.93% in Q1 2025, the strongest first-quarter growth in the past five years.
Industrial and construction sectors grew 7.32%, driven by robust manufacturing output.
Services contributed more than 53.7% of added value, boosted by Tet holiday spending and rising tourist numbers.
Agriculture, forestry, and fisheries posted a 3.74% increase.
Consumer Price Index (CPI) rose 3.22% year-on-year, indicating stable consumption.
Despite slightly missing global forecasts (7.1%–7.7%), Vietnam remains a regional leader in post-pandemic economic recovery.
Singapore to Expand Nutrition Labelling from 2027
Beginning mid-2027, Singapore will require Nutri-Grade nutrition labels on 23 categories of pre-packaged foods, including salt, sauces, instant noodles, and cooking oils.
The most unhealthy products (Grade D) will be banned from advertising.
The aim is to reduce sodium and saturated fat intake across the population.
The move follows extensive consultation with industry experts, manufacturers, and consumers.
The current Nutri-Grade system, which now applies only to beverages, will be extended to a wide range of household food items.
This is a strong push toward healthier diets and transparent food labelling.
Malaysia to Safeguard Economic Interests Amid U.S. Tariffs
In response to the U.S. “Reciprocal Tariff” policy, Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim emphasized Malaysia's commitment to protecting national economic interests.
Malaysia will actively engage in dialogue with the U.S. while maintaining its position as a strong trade partner.
At the same time, the country will intensify efforts to strengthen trade links with the EU, Asia, the Middle East, and Africa.
The government believes multilateralism remains key and is preparing for long-term global trade shifts.
Anwar also stated that U.S. tariff actions are not the first - and won't be the last - challenge to the global trade system.
Indonesia Encourages Businesses to Seek New Markets
President Prabowo Subianto responded to the recent U.S. tariff policy by encouraging Indonesian businesses to diversify beyond traditional markets.
He described the U.S. economic model as one that previously “spoiled” trading partners with open access but is now reversing course.
Indonesian companies are urged to explore new global opportunities and reduce overreliance on the U.S.
The world is, according to him, entering a “new balance” in trade and power.
Indonesia is positioning its private sector to be more proactive and globally agile.
Conclusion
As the U.S. implements protectionist measures, Southeast Asia is responding with a blend of reform, resilience, and outreach. From economic performance and public health policy to trade strategy and business resilience, the region is adapting fast to a changing global order.
What's your take on how ASEAN economies are navigating today's uncertainties? Which country's approach feels the most sustainable or scalable?
Disclaimer: Blooming reserves the right of final explanation and
revision for all the information.