Resolving Long-Standing Non-Tariff Trade Barriers Benefits U.S. and Its Trading Partners

AAIP to Help Bridge the Pacific in U.S.-Indo-Pacific Trade Talks

Jeju, May 14, 2025 — The American Association of the Indo-Pacific (AAIP), the only pan-regional based association for American businesses, calls for the ongoing negotiations over reciprocal tariffs to address key non-tariff barriers (NTBs) that have, in many instances, prevented a level playing field for American companies across the Indo-Pacific. AAIP encourages the U.S. Government and Indo-Pacific governments to consult with business associations and companies to address the most significant trade barriers while providing clarity on forthcoming actions which may impact American companies’ ability to trade across the Indo-Pacific. AAIP’s expansive purview of the Indo-Pacific is a helpful asset at this critical moment in time as we represent a diversity of companies with deep experience navigating business opportunities and challenges from across the region. We can serve as a one-stop-shop providing just in time data and information related to U.S. business interests throughout the Indo-Pacific. 

NTBs such as discriminatory taxation and excise regimes, investment restrictions, local content and localization requirements, and others distort competitive markets and have long disadvantaged U.S. businesses operating in the region and must be part of these ongoing negotiations. 

Furthering steps already undertaken by the Trump Administration, AAIP will help facilitate improved business connectivity between the U.S. and markets across the Indo-Pacific.

Jackson Cox, President of AAIP commented, saying “resolving key NTBs with markets across the Indo-Pacific will go a long way in providing greater access for “Made in USA” goods and services in some of the world’s largest and fastest-growing economies.” Cox continued, “To be sure - the tariffs have been disruptive, but we have a historic opportunity to address long-standing issues that would represent a win for the United States and a win for regional economies. AAIP is ready to work with all stakeholders to make the most of this opportunity.”   

Steven R. Okun, Head of External Affairs at AAIP said “Eliminating the most distortive NTBs in the Indo-Pacific will increase American access to foreign markets which will in-turn, increase jobs and reduce outstanding U.S. trade deficits.”  Okun continued, “Ending opaque and fragmented NTBs will streamline business practices for domestic and international businesses alike, leveling the playing field for American businesses.”

If governments across the Indo-Pacific region effectively identify and resolve the most prohibitive NTBs, this would bring benefit to these markets and reduce the need for the pending reciprocal tariffs. AAIP is committed to working with businesses and trade negotiators on both sides of the Pacific to execute mutually beneficial solutions.