Singapore’s Prime Minister Lawrence Wong has sharply criticized U.S. President Donald Trump’s new tariffs, describing them as actions unbefitting a long-standing ally. Speaking in parliament on Tuesday, Wong warned of rising global trade tensions and signaled that Singapore would likely downgrade its economic growth forecast for the year.
“We are very disappointed by the U.S. move, especially given the deep and long-standing friendship between our two countries,” Wong said. “These are not actions one does to a friend.”
Last week, President Trump announced sweeping tariffs on multiple nations, including traditional allies, citing decades of unfair trade practices. Singapore, despite its free-trade agreement with the United States, was hit with a 10% tariff—lower than those imposed on others, but still significant given its trade-reliant economy.
Wong expressed concern that the move could signal the start of a broader unraveling of the global trading system. “The likelihood of a full-blown global trade war is growing,” he warned. “Singapore may or may not fall into recession this year, but there is no doubt that our growth will be significantly affected.”
The Ministry of Trade is now reviewing its 2025 growth forecast of 1.0% to 3.0%, with a downward revision expected.
Highlighting the imbalance, Wong noted that Singapore imposes zero tariffs on U.S. goods and currently runs a trade deficit with Washington. “If these tariffs were truly reciprocal and targeted only those with surpluses, Singapore’s rate should be zero,” he stated.
Singapore hosts thousands of American companies, many of which have established their Asia-Pacific headquarters in the city-state. Though not a formal U.S. defense treaty ally, Singapore maintains close military cooperation with Washington.
“This marks a profound turning point,” Wong concluded. “We are entering a new phase in global affairs—one that is more arbitrary, protectionist, and dangerous.”