The Hong Kong Chartered Governance Institute will host its flagship annual conference on 6 June 2025, delivering key regulatory updates and fostering meaningful professional dialogues to help governance professionals to navigate today’s changing business environment.
HONG KONG, May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The Hong Kong Chartered Governance Institute (HKCGI) is gearing up to host its 26th Annual Corporate and Regulatory Update (ACRU) conference on Friday, 6 June 2025, at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre. This flagship event, a must-attend for governance professionals, directors, senior executives, and practitioners, provides the latest insights on regulatory changes, compliance requirements, and enforcement practices.
For 26 years, ACRU has served as a valuable forum for exploring regulatory trends and best practices. The conference attracted over 2,200 in-person and online participants in 2024, and this year, it has already surpassed that number, reiterating the demand for forums like ACRU. Guided by HKCGI’s 2025 theme of ‘Governance for Growth’, ACRU improves attendees’ capacity building, equipping them with practical knowledge for tackling emerging governance challenges. With registration open until 30 May, attendees still have the opportunity to enrol for the conference and join this growing community.
This year’s programme will feature six major government authorities and regulators sharing updates on pertinent topics, including listing rules, digital securities, and compliance and enforcement developments. Sessions will address the ongoing changes in capital markets and governance practices, covering topical areas including technology solutions for corporate verification, disclosure requirements, upcoming Companies Ordinance amendments, and more.
“ACRU has become central to our professional development calendar, creating a trusted space where government authorities, regulators and practitioners can exchange actionable insights,” said Mr David Simmonds FCG HKFCG, President of HKCGI. “Understanding regulatory expectations is now a business necessity. We welcome both returning speakers and new voices—notably the Digital Policy Office—as we work towards growth through sound governance.”
Ms Ellie Pang FCG HKFCG(PE), Chief Executive of HKCGI, added, “ACRU gives those working in the governance role and other professionals the tools to adapt with confidence. By bringing together regulators, policymakers, and industry leaders, we’re developing governance approaches that create genuine opportunities—this is what ‘Governance for Growth’ means in practice.”
HKCGI extends its gratitude to all speakers, chairs, sponsors, and supporting organisations for their support in making ACRU 2025 possible. Visit ACRU’s website for more information about the event, and to register for this forum shaping the future of governance in Hong Kong.
About The Hong Kong Chartered Governance Institute(Incorporated in Hong Kong with limited liability by guarantee)
The Hong Kong Chartered Governance Institute (HKCGI) is the sole accrediting body in Hong Kong and the Chinese mainland for the globally recognised Chartered Secretary and Chartered Governance Professional qualifications. Formerly known as The Hong Kong Institute of Chartered Secretaries (HKICS), HKCGI is the Hong Kong/China Division of The Chartered Governance Institute (CGI).
With a legacy of over 75 years, HKCGI has established itself as a trusted and reputable professional body in the region. Its influence extends to CGI’s global network of around 40,000 members and students, making it one of its fastest-growing divisions. HKCGI’s community comprises about 10,000 members, graduates, and students, with significant representation in listed companies and diverse governance roles across various industries.
Guided by the belief that governance leads to better decision-making and a better world, HKCGI is committed to advancing governance in commerce, industry, and public affairs. It achieves this through education, thought leadership, advocacy, and active engagement with its members and the broader community. As a recognised thought leader, HKCGI promotes the highest standards of governance while advocating for an inclusive approach that considers the interests of all stakeholders, and ensures that every voice is heard and valued.
Better Governance. Better Future. For more information, please visit www.hkcgi.org.hk.
Honouring 30 Years of Bilateral China – Monaco Diplomatic Ties and Cultural Exchange with GEG Concert Extravaganza
MACAU SAR – Media OutReach Newswire – 28 May 2025 – On May 21, the Galaxy International Convention Center came alive with the enchanting sounds of string music, as melodies from the shores of the Mediterranean traversed thousands of miles to grace the coastline of Macau. Galaxy Macau™, the award-winning luxury integrated resort, presented a spectacular musical extravaganza—“Galaxy Music Gala: A Musical Journey from Monaco to Macau” – to commemorate the 30th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Monaco. Over one hundred political, business, and classic music lovers gathered for an unforgettable evening where music spoke louder than words.
On May 21, the world-renowned violinist Zhang Zhang led the esteemed Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters Orchestra in the concert “Galaxy Music Gala: A Musical Journey from Monaco to Macau” at the Galaxy International Convention Center.
Mr. Troy Hickox, Head of Hotels & Lifestyle Development of Galaxy Entertainment Group (“GEG”), Director of Monte Carlo Societé des Bains de Mer (“SBM”) paid homage to the significant ties between GEG and SBM in the welcoming speech, “GEG is delighted to host this concert in celebration of the ten-year anniversary milestone of its strategic partnership with SBM; an enduring partnership which underpins our commitment to extending Monaco’s ties through partnership initiatives worldwide. In tandem with this concert, GEG is committed to hosting a series of annual exchanges with Monaco; including premier international cultural and artistic events – uniting renowned individuals, artists and performers and enriching Macau’s artistic offerings. Through tonight’s gala, we hope to reinforce the cultural connection between Macau and Monaco, fully leveraging Macau’s distinctive advantage as ‘One Base’ – an ‘exchange and cooperation base with the Chinese culture at its core – celebrating significant cultural collaboration’. As the 30th anniversary of official China-Monaco relations, 2025 is a year to celebrate all things that link China with Monaco, be it through culture, commerce, the culinary arts, or sport. GEG is committed to creating an ongoing legacy of luxury entertainment in Macau, hand in hand with SBM.”
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Principality of Monaco to the People’s Republic of China, H.E. Ms. Marie-Pascale BOISSON travelled to Macau especially to attend the concert as a guest of honour; delivering a heartfelt speech.
“As Ambassador of Monaco to China, I am so honored to be here this evening to share a very special musical event with you, initiated by GEG in this resounding celebration of the thirtieth anniversary of diplomatic relations between the People’s Republic of China and the Principality of Monaco.”
Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Principality of Monaco to the People’s Republic of China, H.E. Ms. Marie-Pascale BOISSON, delivered a heartfelt speech in celebration of the thirtieth anniversary of diplomatic relations between the People’s Republic of China and the Principality of Monaco.
Mr. Troy Hickox, Head of Hotels & Lifestyle Development of Galaxy Entertainment Group (“GEG”), Director of Monte Carlo Societé des Bains de Mer (SBM), following his introductory address, standing on stage next to H.E. Ms. Marie-Pascale BOISSON.
The concert was spearheaded by world-renowned violinist Zhang Zhang, who took the stage alongside the esteemed Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters Orchestra, the virtuoso guitarist Pablo Márquez, and Andrea Cesari, the principal French horn of the Monte Carlo Philharmonic. As the first song Horn Concerto began, the stage transformed into a vibrant crossroads of Eastern and Western cultures. The Baroque elegance of Monaco’s Palace Square and the intricate fusion of East and West in Macao’s Ruins of St. Paul’s merged in a mesmerizing interplay of light and sound.
The concert’s program was a masterpiece from Europe and beyond: the China premier of Gordon Jacob’s “Horn Concerto” showcased Andrea Cesari’s virtuosity, blending the boldness of brass with the delicate whispers of strings beneath the Galaxy Auditorium’s soaring ceiling. Tchaikovsky’s cherished “Serenade for Strings,” reimagined with innovative arrangements, saw the viola and double bass sections weave a tapestry of sound reminiscent of moonlight glistening on Venice’s canals. The highlight of the evening was undoubtedly the Asian premiere of Manuel de Falla’s iconic “Three Dances,” adapted for guitar solo and conduct by Pablo Márquez. The guitar and string ensemble collaboration offered a fresh and captivating musical experience, prompting the audience to erupt in sustained applause for the adaptation’s brilliance. In the concert’s encore, young musicians from Pui Ching Middle School Macau and Lou Hau Middle School Macau joined artists from Monaco and France to present the cherished “Song of the Seven Sons” as a musical ode to Macau’s love and longing for reunification with China. As the final note of the encore faded into silence, the entire audience rose to their feet, accompanied by rapturous applause. On this night of shared camaraderie, music transcended language barriers, with each note embodying the essence of cross-cultural dialogue that poignantly bridged time and space.
Founded in 2001, the Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters Orchestra is a cultural diplomacy initiative dedicated to the Principality of Monaco, having performed alongside the Principality’s ambassadors in various countries over the years. Concertmaster Zhang Zhang, a global music icon, has performed for leaders of both China and Monaco at high-level state visits at the invitation of H.S.H. Prince Albert II of Monaco. She was the first Chinese musician to have joined the Monte Carlo Philharmonic Orchestra and has been graced with the honor of being granted special permission from the Prince’s Government to perform with members of the Monaco Philharmonic Orchestra. In 2007, she established the NGO “Zhangomusiq,” which leverages concerts to support humanitarian, ecological, and educational projects worldwide.
The Auditorium at Galaxy International Convention Center offered an acoustic masterstroke for the audience to enjoy the Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters Orchestra.
On the 30th anniversary of China-Monaco diplomatic relations, the Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters Orchestra, supported by the Ministry of Tourism and Culture of Monaco, embarked on a tour of China, with Macao as its first stop. Dedicated to deepening arts and cultural exchanges within the community and promoting the development of young talent in related fields, GEG hosted an extended activity “Galaxy Entertainment Group Presents: A Musical Journey from Monaco to Macau’s Campus” on May 19, inviting Zhang Zhang and Pablo Márquez to Pui Ching Middle School Macau. During the visit, Zhang Zhang not only shared insights into her experience as a performer and her musical career, but also showcased her artistry to over 200 teachers and students, inspiring them to embrace challenges and pursue their dreams. Arranged by GEG, the two world-class musicians also led a masterclass with students, providing professional guidance to enrich their musical techniques and broaden their horizons through cultural exchange. Additionally, GEG extended special invites to students and members from Lou Hau High School, Pui Ching Middle School Macau, Macao Youth Symphonic Orchestra Association, University of Macau, Federation of Associations of Cultural Sectors of Macau, and Young Men’s Christian Association of Macau, to attend the concert on the May 21, providing them with an opportunity to experience the captivating fusion of Chinese and Western cultures through music.
Zhang Zhang shared insights into her performance experiences and musical career to Pui Ching Middle School Macau teachers and students.
As a cornerstone project supporting Macau’s ambitions as a “City of Performing Arts,” the “Galaxy Music Gala” series presented by Galaxy Macau has already carved out a niche with landmark cultural events: following performances by legendary tenor Plácido Domingo, renowned pianist Lang Lang, and the beloved tenor Andrea Bocelli; culminating in the Monaco Zhangomusiq Concertmasters Orchestra’s unforgettable performance. Galaxy Macau is committed to fostering culture as Asia’s premier artistic destination, through world-class international performances, contributing to Macau’s development as an “exchange and cooperation base with Chinese culture as its mainstream and co-existence of different cultures.”
Hashtag: #GalaxyMacau
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About Galaxy Macau Integrated Resort
Galaxy Macau™, The World-class Luxury Integrated Resort delivers the “Most Spectacular Entertainment and Leisure Destination in the World”. Developed at an investment of HK$43 billion, the property covers 1.1 million-square-meter of unique entertainment and leisure attractions that are unlike anything else in Macau. Eight award-winning world-class luxury hotels provide close to 5,000 rooms, suites and villas. They include Banyan Tree Macau, Galaxy Hotel™, Hotel Okura Macau, JW Marriott Hotel Macau, The Ritz-Carlton, Macau, Broadway Hotel, Raffles at Galaxy Macau, Andaz Macau. Unique to Galaxy Macau, the 75,000-square-meter Grand Resort Deck features the world’s longest Skytop Adventure Rapids at 575-meters, the largest Skytop Wave Pool with waves up to 1.5-meters high and 150-meters pristine white sand beach. Two five-star spas from Banyan Tree Spa Macau and The Ritz- Carlton Spa, Macau help guests relax and rejuvenate.
As the dining destination in Asia, Galaxy Macau offers a wide variety of gastronomic delights, exquisite experiences and ingredients of the finest quality with over 120 dining options from Michelin dining to authentic delicacies.
Embark on a delightful and rewarding journey at Galaxy Promenade, the one-stop shopping destination boasting some of the world’s most iconic luxury brands. Be the first to get the latest limited-edition items; explore fascinating pop-ups by coveted labels and revel in fabulous shopping rewards and privileges. Our VIPs are entitled to a highly-curated experience with dedicated personal shoppers at guests’ service, and be invited to exclusive luxury brand events. A different caliber of privileges and rewards also await. Discover the joys of fashion and stand at the forefront of style and sophistication—Galaxy Promenade has everything guests need to stay ahead of the style game.
Galaxy Cinemas takes immersive movie experiences to the next level with the latest audio-visual technology, ultra-luxurious facilities and bespoke services; CHINA ROUGE, one-of-a-kind cabaret lounge that evokes the glamor of Shanghai’s golden era with stylish entertainment and customizable surrounds; and Foot Hub, which presents the traditional art of reflexology for authentic relaxation and revitalization. For Authentic Macau Flavours and Vibrant Asian Experiences, Broadway Macau – just a 90-second walk via a bridge from Galaxy Macau, has over 35 Authentic Macau & Asian Flavours at Broadway Food Street. The 2,500-seat Broadway Theatre plays host to world-class entertainers and a diverse array of cultural events.
Meeting, incentive and banquet groups are also catered to with a portfolio of unique venues in Galaxy Macau and an expert service team. Galaxy International Convention Center (GICC) is the latest addition to the Group’s ever-expanding integrated resort precinct and will usher in a new era for the MICE industry in Macau. GICC is a world-class event venue featuring 40,000-square-meters of total flexible MICE, and the 16,000-seat Galaxy Arena – the largest indoor arena in Macau.
NEW YORK, May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Forbes China has released its “2025 Forbes China AI Tech Enterprises Top 50” list, recognizing Tuya Smart (NYSE: TUYA, HKEX: 2391), a leading global AI cloud platform service provider, as one of the country’s top AI technology companies. Tuya is notably the only AI cloud platform included in this year’s ranking in recognition of its robust technological capabilities and significant contributions to advancing AI accessibility and commercialization.
The list highlights outstanding Chinese enterprises driving AI innovation, showcasing the industry’s development and growing influence. According to Forbes China, companies that combine breakthroughs in advanced technologies with deep industry expertise are poised to shape the next technological era.
This year’s selection includes one primary list—Top 50 AI Tech Enterprises—alongside four subcategories. The main list focuses on identifying the most influential and representative players in China’s AI sector. A panel of distinguished global and domestic AI scholars and experts evaluated nominees across several criteria, including technological innovation, market performance, and industry impact.
Eva Na, Vice President of Marketing and Strategic Cooperation and CMO of Tuya Smart, said: “Being named to the ‘2025 Forbes China AI Tech Enterprises Top 50’ is a strong endorsement of Tuya’s long-term commitment to AI innovation and ecosystem development. We will continue to leverage our technological strengths and open ecosystem, working with global partners to lower barriers to AI adoption, promote equitable AI access, and deliver more user-friendly smart products that bring tangible value to businesses, households, and individuals worldwide.”
MADRID, May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The International Defense and Security Exhibition of Spain, Feindef, had a record year in 2025, with more than 44,000 attendees, an increase of 78% in international presence, and the signing of numerous strategic agreements, becoming a “benchmark platform for cooperation” for the sector for three days.
The International Defense and Security Exhibition of Spain, Feindef, had a record year in 2025, with more than 44,000 attendees, an increase of 78% in international presence
With a strong international focus, the biennial fair, which has the institutional support of the Spanish Ministry of Defense, reinforced its global role.
Feindef Foundation President Ángel Olivares said the focus was “essential” to guarantee “our security and defense” and that, at the same time, “opens a very hopeful path for the future.”
The fair, held from May 12 to 14 at Ifema Madrid, had 601 exhibitors (75% SMEs), of which 187 were international, and more than 90 delegations from different countries.
There was “intense diplomatic and commercial activity with representatives from 56 nations,” according to organizers.
The European Defense Agency (EDA), Europol, the UN, NATO, the Organization for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR), and the European Commission were among the organizations participating.
During the three days, key issues in the sector were covered, such as unmanned systems, cyber defense, advances in artificial intelligence applied to military logistics, dual application technologies, and other major structural challenges, such as the importance of attracting and retaining talent and making young people more security aware.
The fair served as an “ideal framework to facilitate agreements on international strategic alliances,” said Olivares. The president also saw it as a space to continue advancing towards “a single defense market in Europe.” This is in a context, in which EU leaders have agreed to boost security and defense spending, which, according to Brussels, could result in a rise of up to 800 billion euros.
The event also served as a platform for formalizing more than a dozen relevant agreements. Those include ones reached by Ukraine with both national and international companies, those made by TEDAE (Spanish Association of Technology Companies for Defense, Security, Aeronautics and Space) and AESMIDE (Association of Contractors with Public Administrations), letters of intent signed by the Spanish Ministry of Defense with the European Defense Agency (EDA), and a memorandum of understanding signed between Spanish industry and Turkish Aerospace for an integrated training program for the Spanish Air and Space Force.
MADRID, May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — The International Defense and Security Exhibition of Spain, Feindef, had a record year in 2025, with more than 44,000 attendees, an increase of 78% in international presence, and the signing of numerous strategic agreements, becoming a “benchmark platform for cooperation” for the sector for three days.
The International Defense and Security Exhibition of Spain, Feindef, had a record year in 2025, with more than 44,000 attendees, an increase of 78% in international presence
With a strong international focus, the biennial fair, which has the institutional support of the Spanish Ministry of Defense, reinforced its global role.
Feindef Foundation President Ángel Olivares said the focus was “essential” to guarantee “our security and defense” and that, at the same time, “opens a very hopeful path for the future.”
The fair, held from May 12 to 14 at Ifema Madrid, had 601 exhibitors (75% SMEs), of which 187 were international, and more than 90 delegations from different countries.
There was “intense diplomatic and commercial activity with representatives from 56 nations,” according to organizers.
The European Defense Agency (EDA), Europol, the UN, NATO, the Organization for Joint Armament Cooperation (OCCAR), and the European Commission were among the organizations participating.
During the three days, key issues in the sector were covered, such as unmanned systems, cyber defense, advances in artificial intelligence applied to military logistics, dual application technologies, and other major structural challenges, such as the importance of attracting and retaining talent and making young people more security aware.
The fair served as an “ideal framework to facilitate agreements on international strategic alliances,” said Olivares. The president also saw it as a space to continue advancing towards “a single defense market in Europe.” This is in a context, in which EU leaders have agreed to boost security and defense spending, which, according to Brussels, could result in a rise of up to 800 billion euros.
The event also served as a platform for formalizing more than a dozen relevant agreements. Those include ones reached by Ukraine with both national and international companies, those made by TEDAE (Spanish Association of Technology Companies for Defense, Security, Aeronautics and Space) and AESMIDE (Association of Contractors with Public Administrations), letters of intent signed by the Spanish Ministry of Defense with the European Defense Agency (EDA), and a memorandum of understanding signed between Spanish industry and Turkish Aerospace for an integrated training program for the Spanish Air and Space Force.
SUZHOU, China, May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — In the newly announced entry list of the Inspiration Hive zone at the 2025 New York Society of Cosmetic Chemists (NYSCC) exhibition, Kintor’s innovative ingredient KT-939 has been selected as the only “Chinese Ingredient” among the numerous global ones. It will compete with global industry giants such as Ashland, DSM-Firmenich, and Eastman, marking a groundbreaking milestone that China’s cosmetic ingredient R&D stands at the forefront of global innovation.
The 2025 NYSCC exhibition will open from 3rd June to 4th June at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York. As the world’s most influential B2B beauty industry event, NYSCC consistently sets trends for the global beauty and personal care sector, focusing on the integration of raw material supply chains and the communication of cutting-edge market trends and technologies. The Inspiration Hive zone was co-launched by global beauty trend authority BEAUTYSTREAMS and the NYSCC Suppliers’ Day. As the special zone in the NYSCC exhibition, Inspiration Hive aims to demonstrate the most forward-thinking and innovative ingredients and technologies in the beauty and personal care industry, emphasizing components and innovations aligned with future consumer trends.
Following its selection, KT-939 will be displayed alongside the pioneering products from global leaders like Ashland, DSM-Firmenich, Croda, Lubrizol, and Eastman, attracting attentions from key industry stakeholders across branding, R&D, and formulation and aligning with current hot trends such as sustainability, biotechnology, and personalized care. Meanwhile, the Inspiration Hive, as a high-end communication platform, will enable KT-939 to explore collaboration opportunities, establish new business connections, and drive partnerships and product development.
Inclusion in the Inspiration Hive zone underscores the company’s technological and innovative leadership, as well as KT-939’s superior efficacy and advantage in market trends. It represents a pivotal opportunity to enhance brand value and global influence, which will help strengthen industry credibility and professional recognition.
SHANGHAI and LONDON, May 28, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Sigenergy, a leading energy innovator, and Intertek, a leading Total Quality Assurance provider to industries worldwide, have officially released the white paper Comprehensive Safety Protection for C&I Energy Storage Systems, offering in-depth insights into safety strategies for commercial and industrial energy storage solutions.
The white paper was previewed at Intersolar Europe by Samuel Zhang, CTO of Sigenergy, and Klaus Herrmann, Global Certifier at Intertek.
The white paper was initially previewed during a joint launch ceremony at Intersolar Europe 2025, attended by Samuel Zhang, Chief Technology Officer at Sigenergy, and Klaus Herrmann, Global Certifier at Intertek. Today’s official release marks the full publication of their findings and reaffirms both companies’ commitment to advancing safety standards across the energy storage industry.
As the global energy transition accelerates, commercial and industrial (C&I) energy storage systems are playing a crucial role in improving energy efficiency and balancing power supply and demand. However, their rapid adoption has also brought safety concerns to the forefront, underscoring the urgent need for more rigorous standards and comprehensive safety solutions. In response, Intertek and Sigenergy have collaborated to release a White Paper that helps shape industry-wide benchmarks for the safe deployment and operation of C&I energy storage systems.
The White Paper focuses on key safety challenges in C&I energy storage—such as thermal runaway, fire mitigation, and system complexity—and presents technical perspectives based on the evaluation of Sigenergy’s SigenStack. With its modular and scalable architecture, SigenStack serves as a practical model for how future energy storage systems can balance safety, flexibility, and operational efficiency.
According to the White Paper, SigenStack has undergone a full suite of internationally recognized and automotive-grade safety tests—including UL 9540A, IEC 62619, and GB/T 36276. Test results presented in the publication indicate that the system maintained structural integrity under extreme conditions and achieved operational efficiencies exceeding 95%. By sharing these findings, the White Paper aims to promote best practices and foster the long-term, sustainable development of the global energy storage industry.
Samuel Zhang, Chief Technology Officer at Sigenergy, added: “At Sigenergy, we believe safety and innovation must go hand in hand. Through our collaboration with Intertek, we are proud to contribute to the development of high-integrity safety standards and help drive the global transition toward smarter and more sustainable energy systems.”
Klaus Herrmann, Global Certifier at Intertek commented: “The release of this White Paper marks a significant step in our shared commitment to advancing safety in the energy storage sector. As a global leader in quality assurance, Intertek remains dedicated to enabling innovation through rigorous testing and certification, helping companies meet evolving safety requirements and expand confidently into new markets.”
Philippines' President Ferdinand Marcos Jr (L), Malaysia's Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim (C) and China's Premier Li Qiang stand onstage during the ASEAN - Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) - China Summit after the 46th Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) Summit in Kuala Lumpur on May 27, 2025. (Photo by Jam STA ROSA / AFP)
By Rebecca BAILEY and Isabelle LEONG/AFP – Southeast Asian leaders expressed “deep concern” over US tariffs Tuesday, as they held a summit with China and Gulf states hailed as “a response to the call of the times” in a geopolitically uncertain world.
The trade-dependent economies are looking to insulate themselves after US President Donald Trump blew up global trade norms by announcing a slew of levies targeting countries around the world, then paused most for 90 days.
The Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) released a statement on Tuesday night expressing “deep concern over… the imposition of unilateral tariff measures, which pose complex and multidimensional challenges to ASEAN’s economic growth, stability, and integration.”
In another statement, the bloc stressed “our strongest resolve to stand together” in the face of the levies, and pledged to expand cooperation with other partners.
Earlier in the day Malaysia, which holds the bloc’s rotating chairmanship, hosted the inaugural summit between ASEAN, China and the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) — a regional bloc made up of Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.
Chinese Premier Li Qiang told the meeting that “against the backdrop of a volatile international situation”, the summit was “a pioneering work of regional economic cooperation.”
“This is not only a continuation of the course of history, but also a response to the call of the times,” he said.
ASEAN has traditionally served as “a middleman of sorts” between developed economies like the United States, and China, said Chong Ja Ian from the National University of Singapore (NUS).
With Washington looking unreliable these days, “ASEAN member states are looking to diversify”.
“Facilitating exchanges between the Gulf and People’s Republic of China is one aspect of this diversification,” he said.
Timely and Calculated
China, which has borne the brunt of Trump’s tariffs, is also looking to shore up its other markets.
China and ASEAN are already each other’s largest trading partners, and Chinese exports to Thailand, Indonesia and Vietnam surged by double digits in April — attributed to a re-routing of US-bound goods.
Premier Li’s participation is “both timely and calculated,” Khoo Ying Hooi from the University of Malaya told AFP.
“China sees an opportunity here to reinforce its image as a reliable economic partner, especially in the face of Western decoupling efforts.”
ASEAN reiterated on Tuesday it would not impose retaliatory duties on the United States — in contrast to China.
Beijing and Washington engaged in an escalating flurry of tit-for-tat levies until a meeting in Switzerland saw an agreement to slash them for 90 days.
Chinese goods still face higher tariffs than most though.
At dinner on Tuesday, Li urged ASEAN and the GCC to “persist in opening up”.
Centrality
ASEAN has historically avoided choosing a side between the United States and China.
China is only Southeast Asia’s fourth largest source of foreign direct investment, after the United States, Japan and the European Union, noted NUS’ Chong.
At a press conference at the tail-end of the talks, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim vowed ASEAN would continue engaging both Washington and Beijing.
“The… ASEAN position is centrality,” Anwar said, adding “it makes a lot of sense to continue to engage and have reasonably good relations” with the United States”.
Anwar said Monday he had written to request an ASEAN-US summit this year, with his foreign minister saying Washington had not yet responded.
Closer alignment with Beijing presents problems of its own.
On Monday, Philippines leader Ferdinand Marcos said there was an “urgent need” to adopt a legally binding code of conduct in the South China Sea.
Beijing has territorial disputes with five ASEAN member states in the area, with China and the Philippines having engaged in months of confrontations in the contested waters.
Anwar raised the South China Sea with Li and the Philippines, saying: “I’m not saying all issues can be resolved now but there was real positive engagement.”