Asia's trade focus shifts to China amid Trump tariffs

Philippines eyes new investments while Thailand and others build up rail link

20250409N Manila port

Cargo vessels at Manila's main port. The U.S. now imposes a 17% tariff on imports from the Philippines. © Reuters

KENTARO SHIOZAKI and YUKI FUJITA

BEIJING/MANILA -- As the U.S. imposes sweeping tariffs on global trade partners, Asian countries are doubling down on economic ties with China.

"There's a window of opportunity for us," Philippine Chamber of Commerce and Industry chairman George Barcelon told Nikkei Asia after the announcement by U.S. President Donald Trump last week.

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