ASEAN Survey: 52% Favor China, Trump Policies Top Fear
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- ASEAN opinion‑makers: 52% would align with China, according to the ISEAS survey.
- Trump’s foreign policies: 51.9% of respondents named them ASEAN’s biggest geopolitical fear, edging out South China Sea aggression (48.2%).
- China vs United States: 52% of surveyed ASEAN leaders preferred China as the region’s superpower, versus 48% for the US, reversing the 2025 trend.
- ASEAN’s stance: The survey notes the bloc still seeks a balanced approach rather than full alignment with any major power.
- China’s domestic interference: 30.3% of respondents flagged it as a key concern.
- Japan and European Union: 65.6% of respondents consider Japan the most trusted partner, with the EU at 55.9%.
Why it matters: China gains a clear diplomatic edge in Southeast Asia as a majority of ASEAN leaders now favor it over the United States, while the United States faces eroding influence amid heightened anxiety over Donald Trump’s foreign policies. The shift could reshape regional trade, security cooperation, and diplomatic outreach.
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