Donald Trump’s tariff policies have disproportionately impacted ASEAN economies, disrupting exports, deterring investment, and straining US-ASEAN trade ties. To navigate these challenges, ASEAN countries are exploring diversification, regional integration, and domestic reforms to enhance resilience and reduce vulnerability to protectionist shocks.

India is increasingly using arms exports as a strategic tool to enhance its diplomatic influence, strengthen regional partnerships, and assert itself as a rising global power. The current government has linked defence manufacturing with foreign policy to build national capacity, counter rivals like China and Pakistan, and elevate its international standing.

The United States (US) would be best placed to adopt a Cyber Maze framework, advocating a flexible, layered strategy to counter China’s evolving cyber operations. This would involve focusing on adaptability over rigid deterrence, and emphasing proactive defence, resilience, and diplomacy to manage risks without escalating conflict.