Marketplace All-in-One Southeast Asian countries strike trade deals with U.S.
Oct 27, 2025
Deborah Elms, a trade policy expert at the Heinrich Foundation, discusses recent trade agreements between Southeast Asian nations and the U.S., highlighting the implications for tariffs on semiconductors and pharmaceuticals. She warns of potential legal uncertainties and the impact of U.S. policy alignment. Additionally, BBC correspondents Ioni Wells and Megan Lawton dive into the political landscape in Argentina following significant midterm wins and share insights on preparations for the upcoming FIFA World Cup, including transport logistics in Canada.
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Malaysia's Partial Trade Win
- Malaysia secured a 19% tariff arrangement but missed clarity on semiconductors and pharmaceuticals.
- Deborah Elms warns gaps could limit Malaysia's future trade flexibility and ties with the EU.
U.S. May Use A Regional Blueprint
- The U.S. will likely use the Malaysia playbook as a blueprint for other bilateral deals in Asia.
- Elms notes many countries may resist because of differing market dependencies and existing ties.
Court Rulings Could Undo Deals
- Legal uncertainty looms if U.S. court rulings overturn the statutes used to impose tariffs.
- Elms warns the agreements don't clearly address such scenarios or future tariff moves.