The European Union hopes to avert a damaging trade war with the US over impending metals tariffs by prioritising negotiations rather than retaliatory countermeasures, EU officials signalled on Wednesday.

Through tariffs, President Trump may inadvertently pave the way for a reordering of trade relationships and the emergence of new economic blocs.

The US President’s tariff hikes will particularly impact countries with high trade surpluses with the US, analysts warn

Indonesia is seeking to diversify its markets as global protectionism intensifies, while also taking steps to defend its local manufacturers, Deputy Trade Minister Dyah Roro Esti Widya Putri said.

Regarding U.S. President Donald Trump’s recent 25-percent tariff on all steel and aluminum imports into the United States, Nguyen Manh Quyen, head of the Vietnam Trade Office’s branch in Houston, Texas, recommended Vietnamese businesses to wait for clear guidance before making any decisions.

The European Union said it would respond with "firm and proportionate countermeasures" after US President Donald Trump's decision to impose tariffs on all steel and aluminium imports, escalating fears of a trade war.

As Canada braces for 25 per cent U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum, U.S. President Donald Trump says he is considering an additional tariff on Canadian-made cars, which could be as high as 50 to 100 per cent.

Amidst the complicated developments in the global market, the MoIT has directed foreign market departments and Vietnam’s trade offices abroad to closely monitor market trends, as well as economic, political, and policy changes in the region and the world that could impact trade with Vietnam.

Vietnam's steel and aluminum products are renowned for their competitive prices and high quality, offering significant value to the US economy by helping curb inflation and fostering stronger bilateral trade ties, a point echoed by many importing nations.

The risk of a US-led trade war expanding globally raises concerns for Vietnam's exports and its ability to benefit from FTAs. Experts warn that Vietnam must closely monitor developments and proactively adapt to potential challenges.