On April 2, the US imposed tariffs of 10% to 49% on several Southeast Asian nations, with Vietnam, Cambodia, and Laos facing the highest rates at 46%, 49%, and 48%, respectively. This move, justified by the White House as a response to unfair trade practices, could severely impact export-driven economies, particularly Vietnam, where US trade constitutes a significant portion of exports and GDP. Critics argue the tariffs are based on trade surplus data rather than actual rates, potentially undermining trust in US partnerships in the region amid growing Chinese influence.