Washington: The United States (US) has dismissed concerns that its newly announced global tariffs could alienate ASEAN partners, reiterating that the measures are necessary to address long-standing trade imbalances. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that the tariffs, set to take effect on August 1, are part of a broader strategy to tackle unsustainable trade deficits accumulated over the past two to three decades with countries worldwide, including the European Union (EU), Canada, Mexico, and Asia.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Rubio stated that the tariffs are not specifically aimed at any one country or region, emphasizing their global application. He addressed reporters on the sidelines of the 58th ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting (AMM), which was concluding its final day. Rubio highlighted that for decades, the US has experienced enormous trade deficits with multiple countries, a situation President Donald Trump is aiming to rectify.

Rubio mentioned that while the tariffs will begin as scheduled, there is a possibility of reaching new arrangements with individual countries that could positively adjust the tariffs. He stressed that the policy is not targeted at any specific nation but is a necessary global measure to address the unsustainable trade deficit.

On Monday, Washington announced a 25 percent tariff on all Malaysian products entering the US, separate from existing sectoral tariffs. This new rate, effective August 1, marks an increase from the previous tariff rate of 24 percent. Brunei will also face a 25 percent tariff. Other ASEAN member states have been affected as well, with Indonesia facing a 32 percent tariff, the Philippines 20 percent, and both Thailand and Cambodia 36 percent. Laos and Myanmar have each been subjected to a 40 percent tariff, while Vietnamese exports will be subject to a 20 percent tariff. Singapore remains under a base tariff of 10 percent.