IMPACT OF THE US-CHINA RIVALRY

Mr. Trump is expected to step up efforts on trade regulations on key technologies, particularly on Beijing’s access to semiconductors.

The move has benefited Southeast Asian countriesincluding Singapore and neighboring Malaysia, as companies diversify their supply chain and manufacturing operations beyond China.

However, Dr Ang cautioned against caution as Mr Trump’s hawkish stance on China could mean countries and companies with significant Chinese investment could be subject to similar treatment and also face trade restrictions.

“This promises benefits for the region, but there are also downsides as the United States prepares to examine some of these supply chains,” he said.

Mr. Chen said: “Trump’s threat to impose universal tariffs as well as tariffs on imports from China (will) create shockwaves in the region.” But it is also possible that he will use it as a bargaining chip and try to force countries to sit at the negotiating table.”

REGIONAL SECURITY AND DEFENSE

Analysts said geopolitical tensions in the region, particularly in the region South China Sea and the Taiwan Strait, are expected to increase.

Mr. Chen said he expects Mr. Trump’s national security posts to be staffed with loyalists who are likely to be hawkish toward China.

“(It) would increase tensions in the region, hopefully not to the level of conflict, but we need to be prepared,” he added.