At the ASEAN Summit in Kuala Lumpur, the global trade scene witnessed a wave of diplomatic and economic breakthroughs signaling a gradual easing of trade tensions.

According to Reuters, the United States and China reached a preliminary framework agreement on tariffs and rare earth export controls. U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent confirmed that Washington will delay the 100% additional tariff on Chinese imports, previously set to take effect on November 1, while China agreed to postpone its new export licensing system for rare earths and magnetic materials for about one year. The move is widely seen as a symbolic step toward stabilizing relations amid escalating economic confrontation.

Meanwhile, the United States has accelerated its efforts to reshape trade ties with key manufacturing partners in Asia. On October 26, Washington and Thailand jointly announced a “reciprocal trade framework,” under which Thailand will eliminate tariffs on about 99% of U.S. goods, covering industrial, food, and agricultural products.

That same day, the U.S. and Vietnam unveiled a “reciprocal, fair, and balanced trade agreement,” maintaining a 20% mutual tariff on most goods while granting zero-tariff access for specific product categories to be finalized by both sides.

In Europe, disruptions persist at Rotterdam Port, where a recent strike by lashing workers has caused significant container backlogs. Although operations have resumed after a 48-hour strike between October 8 and 17, congestion remains severe, with delays expected to last another one to two weeks. The ripple effects may temporarily affect shipping schedules and freight rates on the Asia–Europe route.

Taken together, these developments reflect a shifting trade landscape: while Washington seeks a strategic tariff détente with Beijing, it is simultaneously strengthening supply-chain partnerships across Southeast Asia. For global freight forwarders, exporters, and logistics firms, the emerging tariff map means new routes, restructured duty frameworks, and evolving port-side risks to monitor closely.Hanyue International will closely monitor the developments of proactively establish alternative markets and backup supply chains to maintain flexibility. By optimizing market presence and pre-designing alternative solutions, shippers will maintain flexibility and resilience amidst these fluctuations. For the latest information or customized response plans, please contact our customer service.