On April 2, 2025, President Donald Trump announced a series of global tariffs aimed at addressing perceived trade imbalances and protecting American industries. These tariffs, which encompass a wide range of goods from various countries, were positioned as a means to reinforce domestic manufacturing and revive the U.S. economy.

However, the implementation of these tariffs has led to significant chaos in global supply chains, prompting concerns about rising costs for consumers and businesses alike. The news also triggered an influx of social conversations andpublic discourse. In fact, the tariffs by Trump gained 4,780 mentions online from 5-7 Apr 2025 across the Asia-Pacific region. The news gained 1,566 mentions on 5 Apr 2025, 886 mentions on 6 Apr 2025, and 2,328 mentions on 7 Apr 2025, according to media intelligence firm Truescope. 


It also found that within the Southeast Asian landscape, Malaysia led the share of voice with 61.9%. This was followed by Philippines (12.3%), Thailand (9.5%), Indonesia (8.9%), Singapore (4.2%), and Vietnam (3.2%).

The most prevalent hashtags used during this period were #tariffs, #trumptariffs, and #donaldtrump. The hashtags were primarily used by publications posting the respective leaders’ address about the tariffs, reports on the market conditions, and politicians statements about the imposition, said Truescope. 


Amongst the conversations analyzed by Truescope, it found that public sentiment skewed strongly negative, with online discourse urging for strategic counter measures. Suggestions ranged from trade diversification and domestic industry prioritisation, to retaliatory tariffs and calls to boycott US-linked products and services. These conversations reflect growing regional calls for economic independence and resilience.

Many netizens also highlighted the critical role of policymakers and global trade bodies in implementing forward-looking interventions. Commentary called for measured leadership both in response and tone warning against unnecessary panic that may heighten consumer anxiety or destabilise markets further.

While some segments of the online public supported reciprocal tariffs and viewed them as justified, others cautioned against escalating tensions. Interestingly, a minority segment voiced support for the US stance indicating a polarised, if not fragmented, regional response, said Truescope.


Amid coverage on trade risk and recession warnings, some audiences expressed
concern over what they perceived as “scaremongering.” The narrative quality particularly in regional outlets played a role in shaping how the public evaluated both their national stance and that of the US.

Facebook

Discussions surrounding the US tariff imposition triggered considerable backlash on Facebook. Netizens strongly advocated for trade diversification and regional collaboration as key strategies to mitigate the impact. Some users called for collective retaliation, citing that the US remains reliant on external resources and services, positioning leverage in favour of affected countries, said Truescope. 

It added that calls for government action were prevalent with users urging national leaders to adopt proactive, strategic, and long-term solutions. However, sentiment was divided on leadership responses: while some demanded stronger stance, others warned against escalating tensions through what they perceived as “fear-mongering” or reactive rhetoric. Frustration was also expressed over President Trump’s re-election prospects, with users highlighting the global implications of US electoral outcomes.

Opinions on China’s retaliation were also mixed some lauded its reduced dependency on US markets, while others supported the firm stance taken by the US in trade negotiations.

Instagram


Instagram conversations echoed similar concerns, though with more emphasis on leadership perception and consumer sentiment.

A recurring theme was criticism of what users perceived as alarmist rhetoric by political leaders, with some calling it counterproductive in managing public confidence.

Others used the platform to question the transparency and preparedness of their governments, seeking clearer action plans and evidence of strategic foresight. There was also strong support for strengthening domestic production and investing in national industries as a means to reduce reliance on foreign trade, said Truescope.

Caution emerged as a key narrative, with users suggesting that public statements made in reaction to the US tariffs be measured so as not to provoke further economic press in reaction to the US tariffs be measured so as not to provoke further economic pressure or diplomatic fallout.

TikTok


TikTok users actively voiced concerns about the broader economic implications of the US tariff imposition, with many advocating for stronger focus on developing local economies and prioritising local talent.

There were growing calls for clarity on local countermeasures, as users sought assurance amid growing fears of a potential global recession. Some users also encouraged a boycott of US-made products and services, urging governments to forge stronger partnerships with alternative trade allies, according to Truescope.

Echoing sentiments found on other platforms, TikTok also saw discussions around perceived “scaremongering” tactics, with users cautioning against unnecessary alarm that could escalate public anxiety.