Trump secures trade, critical minerals deals at ASEAN summit

By Al Mayadeen English
Source: Agencies
26 Oct 2025 11:49

During the 47th ASEAN Summit, President Trump signed trade and rare earth agreements with Thailand, Cambodia, and Malaysia.

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United States President Donald Trump speaks during the ASEAN US Summit in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on October 26, 2025. (AP)

United States President Donald Trump signed a series of pivotal trade and critical minerals agreements with Thailand, Cambodia, and Malaysia during the 47th ASEAN Summit, on Sunday, Reuters reported.

Trade, critical minerals agreements

Thailand agreed to eliminate tariffs on 99% of US goods, enhancing market access for American products. Additionally, Thailand committed to cooperating with the US on critical minerals, including rare earth elements, to ensure a stable supply for American industries.

Meanwhile, Malaysia pledged not to impose bans or quotas on the export of critical minerals or rare earth elements to the US. Kuala Lampur also agreed to improve market access for US industrial, agricultural, and halal-certified consumer products.

Cambodia committed to significant purchases of American goods, including Boeing aircraft, as part of the trade agreements.

Ceasefire agreement between Thailand, Cambodia

In addition to the trade agreements, President Trump co-signed a ceasefire agreement between Thailand and Cambodia. The ceasefire, known as the Kuala Lumpur Peace Accord, aims to resolve a long-standing border conflict that escalated into intense fighting in July, resulting in at least 66 deaths and the displacement of over 300,000 people.

Key provisions of the ceasefire agreement

Military De-escalation: Both nations have agreed to withdraw heavy weapons from the border area.
Prisoner Exchange: Thailand will release 18 Cambodian soldiers detained during the conflict.
Landmine Removal: Joint efforts will be initiated to clear landmines along the border.
Regional Monitoring: ASEAN observers, including representatives from Malaysia, will be deployed to ensure compliance with the agreement.

President Trump pointed to the significance of the deal, stating, "We did something that a lot of people said couldn't be done," and commended the leaders of both countries for their commitment to peace.

Next stops: Japan, South Korea

As Trump continues his Asia tour, he is expected to visit Japan and South Korea for the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) forum, where further discussions on trade and regional security are anticipated.

In Seoul, he is scheduled to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping to discuss trade relations, regional security, and other key bilateral issues. The meeting expected to be a critical moment for US-China relations, which will sahpe crucial trade policies and regional security dynamics in the Asia-Pacific.

Its outcome could have far-reaching consequences for the global economy, especially in terms of supply chains and access to rare earth minerals, amid heightened tensions stemming from the Trump administration’s ongoing trade war with China.