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Nations like Japan, South Korea, and ASEAN members have mastered the art of strategic hedging, balancing economic ties with China against security alliances with the Recent ASEAN survey: 50.5% favor China, up from 38.9% in 2025. Economic links strengthen due to US trade policies and Belt and Road Initiative. ASEAN seeks balance ASEAN occupies a strategic position in the Indo-Pacific, balancing strong relationships with both the U.S. and China. The South China Sea, where several ASEAN Comprising ten member states, ASEAN has navigated the power play between the United States and China, aiming to uphold regional stability and promote Southeast Asia navigates US-China tensions, balancing economic ties and security strategies to sustain regional stability amid evolving geopolitical shifts. As the region's nations seek to protect their interests and maintain stability, they are faced with a dilemma: how to balance their economic ties with China and their security relationships with This article examines how the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) conflict management process in the South China Sea (SCS) has been conducted and whether the Two topics of conversation dominated: U.S.-China relations and President Donald Trump’s positions and policiesissues those of us from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations

ASEAN's Balancing Act: Navigating Between the US and China

Comprising ten member states, ASEAN has navigated the power play between the United States and China, aiming to uphold regional stability and promote economic growth. Southeast Asia navigates US-China tensions, balancing economic ties and security strategies to sustain regional stability amid evolving geopolitical shifts. As the region's nations seek to protect their interests and maintain stability, they are faced with a dilemma: how to balance their economic ties with China and their security relationships with the U.S.

ASEAN occupies a strategic position in the Indo-Pacific, balancing strong relationships with both the U.S. and China. This article examines how the Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is handling this complex dynamic. Nations like Japan, South Korea, and ASEAN members have mastered the art of strategic hedging, balancing economic ties with China against security alliances with the U.S.

The Tightrope Walk: Economic Ties vs. Security Concerns

The balancing act is becoming increasingly delicate. Economic links strengthen, driven in part by factors like the Belt and Road Initiative. Recent ASEAN survey data reveals a shift in perception: 50.5% favor China, up from 38.9% in 2025. This trend is fueled by the tangible economic benefits derived from Chinese investment and trade, sometimes accelerated due to US trade policies.

The South China Sea Factor

The South China Sea, where several ASEAN members have overlapping territorial claims, adds another layer of complexity. The conflict management process in the South China Sea (SCS) presents a continuous challenge for ASEAN unity and its ability to assert its influence. The future of the region hinges on ASEAN's ability to foster dialogue and prevent escalation.

Strategic Hedging: A Viable Solution?

Strategic hedging involves fostering strong economic ties with China while maintaining security alliances with the United States. This approach allows ASEAN members to reap the economic benefits of Chinese investment and trade while mitigating potential security risks. Two topics of conversation dominated: U.S.-China relations and President Donald Trump’s positions and policies—issues those of us from the Association of Southeast Asian Nations are keenly aware of and actively trying to navigate.

ASEAN Seeks Balance: A Path Forward

ASEAN's ongoing balancing act between the US and China is crucial for regional stability and prosperity. By pursuing a strategy of engagement, dialogue, and strategic hedging, ASEAN aims to safeguard its interests and promote a peaceful and prosperous Indo-Pacific region.

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