Analysts warn that failure to resolve the trade dispute could lead to economic slowdowns in Thailand's agriculture and manufacturing sectors, which are heavily reliant on exports. Dr. Somchai Phromlert, a Chulalongkorn University expert, notes that tariffs imposed by the US could have far-reaching consequences for the Thai economy. The country's exports reached a three-year high in March 2025, but uncertainty surrounding trade tensions with the US may cloud the annual outlook.
https://www.thailand-business-news.com/trade/216010-can-thailand-escape-the-us-trade-pitfall-sparked-by-trumps-tariffsThe Port of Oakland, a major hub for international trade on the US West Coast, is expected to experience a significant slowdown due to recent tariffs imposed by the US government. Industry analysts predict a 10% drop in cargo volume, which would have far-reaching economic implications. The impact is already being felt at East Bay Restaurant Supply, where prices for kitchen goods made in China have increased since President Trump announced the tariffs. With fewer ships leaving China for West Coast ports, market volatility has risen. However, there is a glimmer of hope that Trump may be softening his stance on Beijing, which could lead to reduced tariffs and alleviate some of the pressure on the port.
https://channelnewsasia.com/world/united-states-west-coast-ports-trade-war-china-tariffs-5111231Ukraine plans to boost bilateral trade with South Korea by facilitating market access, providing logistical support, and promoting joint research projects. The Ministry of Economy and Ukrainian Development Cooperation Agency will collaborate with the Korean Economic Development Fund (EDCF) and private sector companies on joint projects. A list of promising projects is expected to be created, along with a cooperation roadmap and monitoring system. This follows approval from Ukraine's Cabinet of Ministers in June 2024 for ratification of a loan agreement between Ukraine and South Korea worth 2024-2029.
https://www.ukrinform.net/rubric-economy/3989366-ukraine-south-korea-to-develop-economic-cooperation-through-business-council.htmlThe United Nations is hosting a conference to set rules for financing development goals over the next decade, with more than 140 countries involved. The conference aims to bring world leaders together to address climate change and promote sustainable development. The US has expressed concerns about reforming the international financial architecture, seeking to water down efforts to enhance resilience and effectiveness in responding to challenges. The document also shows support for developing countries working closely with the private sector and fostering innovation. However, the US objects to certain provisions, including global solidarity levies, tax transparency, and phasing out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies.
https://www.thenews.com.pk/print/1308743-us-seeks-to-weaken-global-development-finance-efforts-un-document-showsThe US is engaging in a trade war with Canada, its closest ally, while simultaneously pursuing a positive relationship with Russia under Vladimir Putin. This contradictory approach was highlighted by then-Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau's comments after a contentious Oval Office meeting between President Donald Trump and Vice President Mike Pence, where they criticized Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky for not expressing gratitude for US support. In contrast, the US did not apply similar pressure on Putin despite ongoing deadly attacks, instead choosing to cut off military assistance to Ukraine while negotiating with Russia.
https://www.gulftoday.ae/opinion/2025/05/06/what-is-motivating-donald-trumps-foreign-policyThe US and Philippines launched their largest annual joint military exercise "Balikatan" on April 22 in areas near the South China Sea and Taiwan's island in western and northern Philippines. The exercise was criticized by US media outlet The War Zone as premature, depriving forces of valuable data on weapon effectiveness. China's Ministry of National Defense spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang stated that military cooperation should not target any third party's interests or jeopardize regional peace and stability.
https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202505/1333404.shtmlAustralian Foreign Minister Penny Wong has expressed skepticism about the effectiveness of "quiet diplomacy" in resolving international conflicts, suggesting that it may not be enough to address pressing global issues.
https://www.smh.com.au/politics/federal/quiet-diplomacy-albanese-s-post-victory-call-caught-on-camera-20250506-p5lwwk.htmlEU trade commissioner Maroš Šefčovič has conceded that negotiations with the US are challenging, stating that the EU is not willing to accept an unfair deal. He discussed potential cooperation on critical raw materials and overcapacities in steel with US commerce secretary Howard Lutnick and Trade representative Jamieson Greer. The EU is open to increasing imports from the US in areas such as energy, agriculture, and soyabeans. French president Emmanuel Macron and Commission President Ursula von der Leyen discussed trade during a meeting on Monday, aiming to completely withdraw the 10% blanket tariff imposed by the US since April.
https://www.euronews.com/my-europe/2025/05/06/eu-mandarins-in-washington-for-tariff-talksAustralia's newly elected Labor government, led by Prime Minister Anthony Albanese, is expected to prioritize dealing with the US-China trade war and domestic issues such as cost-of-living concerns. Experts say Albanese's win will bring stability on the foreign policy front, particularly in relations with the US, where Australia has historically strong ties. Despite the US imposing tariffs on Australian exports, Albanese aims to make a stronger commitment to try to get Trump to drop the tariffs entirely. The new government is also expected to maintain good relations with China, while diversifying its economic and strategic bases away from both countries, with Southeast Asia being a key focus.
https://channelnewsasia.com/world/australia-anthony-albanese-reelection-trump-tariffs-5111361