US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer announced new fees for Chinese-linked ships entering the US market, with most fees set to begin in mid-October. The fees will be per tonnage or container and can be waived if a ship is built in the US. China dominates global shipbuilding, accounting for nearly half of all ships launched, ahead of South Korea and Japan. Separate fees will apply to Chinese-operated and Chinese-built ships, with rates starting at $18 per NT (approximately $120 per container) for Chinese-built ships. The new rules aim to reverse Chinese dominance in the US shipping industry and address supply chain threats, but have raised concerns among US retailers about increased costs.
https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/nation/us-unveils-new-port-fees-for-chinese-linked-ships/article_04ff0300-b0cc-5427-96cd-80421a1668e1.htmlVietnam's Deputy Prime Minister Dung has requested SEMI SEA, a network of industry leaders, to work closely with the Vietnamese Ministry of Finance and National Innovation Centre (NIC) to implement a training program for the semiconductor workforce. The government aims to enhance its institutional framework to attract foreign and local investments in the sector. Dung's vision includes expanding Vietnam's talent pool and developing a comprehensive ecosystem for semiconductor manufacturing. SEMI SEA has committed to supporting the government's vision, with President Linda Tan highlighting the association's dedication to advancing the industry in Vietnam. The country aims to grow its semiconductor industry as part of its broader push to develop high-tech sectors, positioning itself as a leader in technology and innovation in Southeast Asia.
https://opengovasia.com/2025/04/18/vietnams-vision-for-semiconductor-ai-industry-growth/Chinese President Xi Jinping's recent visits to Vietnam and other Southeast Asian countries aimed to project China as a reliable partner amid US uncertainty. In Vietnam, Xi called for stronger ties on trade and supply chains, while Vietnamese Prime Minister Pham Minh Chinh emphasized the country's need to balance relations with both China and the US. Despite this, Vietnam seeks to avoid over-reliance on China and expand economic partnerships. The visit came as Vietnam faced US tariffs of up to 46% before a recent reprieve. Chinese President Xi Jinping met with Vietnamese Communist Party Secretary-General To Lam, while Chong Ja Ian notes that Vietnam's leadership will likely find ways to mollify the Trump administration during negotiations.
https://channelnewsasia.com/asia/xi-jinping-asean-tour-china-us-tariffs-5072036Malaysia and China strengthened their friendship during a recent visit by Chinese President Xi, who performed traditional songs with Malaysian singer Siti Nurhaliza. The visit marked the second official trip to Malaysia for President Xi in 12 years, following a 2013 visit that elevated bilateral ties to a Comprehensive Strategic Partnership. During his three-day state visit, President Xi was warmly received by applause from Malaysian leaders, including Prime Minister Anwar and Sultan Ibrahim. The two countries have maintained strong trade relations since 1974, with China being Malaysia's largest trading partner for 16 consecutive years, and their trade reached RM484.12 billion in 2024.
https://www.malaymail.com/news/showbiz/2025/04/17/national-songstress-siti-nurhaliza-calls-performance-at-state-dinner-for-chinas-president-xi-a-great-privilege-video/173462The article highlights various topics covered by SCMP recently, including concerns over China's dwindling AI scientists, President Xi Jinping's visit to Malaysia, and the impact of US tariffs on global trade.
https://www.scmp.com/news/world/article/3306840/trumps-tariffs-chinas-ai-scientists-scmps-7-highlights?module=top_story&pgtype=sectionDirector of National Intelligence Tulsi Gabbard has declassified a document showing that the Biden administration used taxpayer dollars to collaborate with foreign and private entities to counter domestic terrorism activity. The plan aimed to combat online disinformation and "radicalization" activities, involving multiple federal agencies and technology companies in information sharing. The US Agency for International Development, Homeland Security, State, and Education departments were among those tasked with carrying out the plans. Republicans, including Sen. Eric Schmitt, say the blueprint showcases the "weaponization" of the intelligence community under the previous presidency.
https://www.victoriaadvocate.com/news/nation/biden-administration-partnered-with-private-companies-usaid-to-combat-disinformation/article_42acbf45-58c4-55b0-a3ad-bc4fb141b375.htmlNadia Georgieva, a key figure in the International Monetary Fund (IMF), suggests that the global economic system is to blame for perceived unfairness. She proposes securing a settlement among major players to create a more level playing field by reducing tariffs and non-tariff barriers. Georgieva advocates for a better-balanced economy, with China boosting private consumption, Europe integrating national economies further, European countries increasing defence spending like Germany, and the US addressing its high national debt.
https://www.firstpost.com/world/trump-tariffs-to-weaken-global-growth-raise-inflation-warns-imf-chief-13880965.htmlJapan's diplomatic consistency has solidified its position as Southeast Asia's most trusted major power, with a survey conducted by Singapore's ISEAS - Yusof Ishak Institute finding that trust in Japan increased from 58.9% to 66.8% among regional opinion makers and thought leaders. This comes amid global uncertainty, including ongoing conflicts in Gaza and Ukraine, and rising tensions from the US-China trade war. The survey, which gathered responses from over 2,000 individuals across 10 Asean member states and East Timor, highlights Japan's reputation as a reliable partner in the region.
https://www.scmp.com/week-asia/politics/article/3306892/stabiliser-why-japan-most-trusted-power-southeast-asia?module=top_story&pgtype=section#commentsUS Senators Mike Lee and an unnamed senator discussed NATO cooperation with European countries, emphasizing the need for mutual support in shipbuilding and national security, particularly in countering Russian aggression in Europe.
https://www.deseret.com/politics/2025/04/18/mike-lee-travels-abroad-for-national-security-talks/