Outlook for US policy towards South-east Asia under the Trump administration.
Donald Trump becomes US president on January 20. South-east Asian governments are assessing the outlook for relations with Washington during his administration. Their region drew scant attention during the US election campaign, and regional leaders have little reason to think South-east Asia will be an early Trump administration priority. However, they fear the effects of possible early frictions between Washington and Beijing, and increased regional rivalries if Washington and Moscow strengthen relations to China’s detriment.
Thai-US relations are likely to warm under Trump.
Myanmar’s leaders will look to the US Senate to protect the gains in Myanmar-US ties under Obama.
Trump-owned or branded businesses in South-east Asia could face protests or terrorist attacks.
