In a climate of escalating tensions between the United States and China, Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong highlighted the increasing complexity and challenges in relations between the two superpowers following the recent U.S. presidential election. Speaking at a press conference on Friday (Nov 8), Wong offered a perspective on how the renewed administration of President Donald Trump, who won a resounding victory this week, could reshape the global economic and political landscape, with a specific focus on trade, security, and multilateral cooperation.
Prime Minister Wong’s statements reflect both cautious optimism and pragmatic concerns as he anticipates a range of possible policy moves from the Trump administration, particularly regarding the intensification of tariffs on Chinese imports. Trump has signaled a willingness to increase tariffs on Chinese goods to as high as 60%, a substantial hike from the 7.5–25% tariffs that defined his previous term. Such a shift could have far-reaching effects on global trade dynamics, potentially altering the direction of international cooperation and economic stability.
Prime Minister Wong described the current U.S.-China relationship as being “in a more challenging place,” recognizing that Trump’s return to office may prompt significant changes. “Where China is concerned, it remains to be seen,” Wong stated, referencing Trump’s campaign promises on trade. While the exact contours of the administration’s policies remain uncertain, the U.S. president’s past approach suggests that a stricter stance toward China is highly likely. However, Wong stressed that these shifts hinge not only on Trump’s decisions but also on the choices made by key members of his administration.
This friction between the two economic giants comes at a crucial moment for global trade and diplomacy. Wong emphasized the “consequential decisions” that both the U.S. and China face, decisions that could fundamentally reshape the global order. The U.S., as the world’s leading power, must choose whether to perceive China as a rising threat that requires containment or as a partner that can be engaged constructively. Conversely, China must determine its role within the existing global framework, especially regarding economic and military leadership. Wong stated, “We hope leaders on both sides will make wise choices to engage one another, to find a way to coexist…and cooperate on issues of shared concerns.”
Singapore, which has traditionally maintained a balanced stance in the U.S.-China rivalry, finds itself in a challenging position. As an open economy with trade constituting roughly three times its gross domestic product (GDP), Singapore’s economy is inherently sensitive to disruptions in global trade. The imposition of high tariffs, which has already gained traction not only in the U.S. but also in Europe and other regions concerned about Chinese imports—particularly in sectors like electric vehicles—threatens Singapore’s economic stability.
“Singapore is naturally concerned about a world where there are more and more frictions to trade,” Wong explained. While acknowledging that tariffs may have limited utility, he advocated for an approach where they are “applied within a proper framework” and expressed Singapore’s preference for reforming and strengthening the World Trade Organization (WTO) to resolve disputes fairly. “A better way to resolve trade disputes is to revamp and strengthen the WTO,” he remarked, underlining Singapore’s commitment to advocating for robust multilateral institutions like the United Nations, International Monetary Fund, World Bank, and World Health Organization, in addition to the WTO.
Reflecting on the conduct and outcome of the U.S. election, Wong avoided direct comparisons with Singapore’s electoral system, emphasizing that each country operates within its unique context. Nevertheless, he acknowledged the divisive nature of modern elections, cautioning against the polarization that often results from hard-fought campaigns. “Elections are ultimately the people’s opportunity to decide which party forms the government,” he noted, underscoring the importance of maintaining unity after elections, regardless of the outcome.
Singapore’s People’s Action Party (PAP), which Wong represents, faces its own challenges in preserving public trust and cohesion, particularly in a global environment where populism and misinformation increasingly influence political discourse. Wong expressed his dedication to fostering a unified and stable Singapore, noting that he does not take public support for granted. He emphasized the PAP’s intention to earn the trust of Singaporeans through proven governance and by addressing pressing domestic issues such as cost-of-living concerns and family-friendly policies.
The Singaporean leader also highlighted the measures his government has put in place to guard against the polarization seen in other democracies. Through legislative safeguards like anti-fake news laws, Singapore aims to shield its society from falsehoods, deepfakes, and misinformation that have plagued electoral processes elsewhere. Wong believes these measures are essential for fostering a stable democratic environment in Singapore, one that is resistant to divisive influences and conducive to long-term national resilience.
Prime Minister Wong’s message reflected a clear awareness of the risks that global power struggles pose to small, open economies like Singapore. As he pointed out, the world is “becoming more dangerous, more turbulent, more volatile, more difficult for small countries like us.” Wong’s commitment to upholding multilateralism and advocating for a rules-based international order illustrates Singapore’s strategic approach to mitigating the impact of global conflicts.
Singapore has historically played a mediating role on the international stage, and Wong reaffirmed the country’s commitment to facilitating dialogue and cooperation between larger powers. By encouraging “wise choices” from the U.S. and China, Singapore hopes to foster a framework where the superpowers can both compete and collaborate, particularly on issues that require global cooperation, such as climate change, economic stability, and public health.
Despite the challenges posed by U.S.-China tensions, Wong expressed cautious optimism that the two countries can find ways to coexist and work together. He noted that Singapore would continue to “do our part to facilitate such a relationship” and underscored the importance of shared international institutions that serve to mediate disputes and reinforce global stability.
This press conference marked Wong’s second such media engagement since taking office in May, following an earlier session in August where he outlined his administration’s core values and priorities. His remarks on Friday reflect Singapore’s proactive approach to addressing both internal and external challenges, underscoring the government’s commitment to transparent communication with the public.
Wong concluded by reiterating the significance of unity and public trust in ensuring Singapore’s resilience in an uncertain world. He emphasized that the government would strive to avoid “political populism and opportunism” in favor of strategies that keep Singapore strong, united, and competitive. By focusing on trust and stability, Wong aims to navigate Singapore through the complexities of modern geopolitics while preserving its national identity and values.
