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Monday, July 14, 2025

Osteoporosis in Men: Why Senior Men Should Pay Attention to Bone Health

Osteoporosis in Men: Why Senior Men Should Pay Attention to Bone Health 
Osteoporosis, a condition characterized by weakened bones, is not exclusive to women and is an important health concern for senior men. While less common than in women, osteoporosis in men can lead to significant morbidity and mortality, particularly from fractures, and is often overlooked. 
Why Senior Men Should Prioritize Bone Health:
  • Increased Fracture Risk:
    Men over 50 have a significant risk of osteoporosis-related fractures, with one in eight experiencing such a fracture. 
    • Higher Mortality Rate:
      Men experience higher mortality rates after fractures, especially hip fractures, compared to women, according to Endocrine Reviews. 
    • Impact on Quality of Life:
      Osteoporosis can lead to chronic pain, decreased mobility, and a reduced quality of life. 
    • Often Overlooked:
      Osteoporosis in men is frequently underdiagnosed and undertreated, meaning many men may not be aware of their risk or receiving appropriate care. 
    • Secondary Causes:
      A significant portion of male osteoporosis cases are linked to secondary causes like hypogonadism, alcohol abuse, and certain medications, which can be identified and managed. 
    Key Factors and Considerations:
    • Age-Related Bone Loss:
      Men experience a gradual decline in bone density with age, making them more susceptible to fractures. 
    • Testosterone and Bone Health:
      Testosterone plays a crucial role in maintaining bone health, and low levels can increase fracture risk. 
    • Lifestyle Factors:
      Diet, exercise, and other lifestyle choices can impact bone health and fracture risk. 
    • Importance of Screening:
      Regular bone density testing (DEXA scan) is recommended, especially for men with risk factors. 
    • Treatment Options:
      Various medications and lifestyle adjustments can help manage osteoporosis and reduce fracture risk. 
    In conclusion, while osteoporosis is often associated with women, it poses a significant health threat to senior men. Increased awareness, proactive screening, and appropriate management are essential to address this often overlooked condition and improve the bone health and overall well-being of older men. 

One in four men will break a bone in their lifetime due to osteoporosis, according to the Bone Health & Osteoporosis Foundation. Although it's often seen as a condition that mainly affects women, osteoporosis in men is more widespread than many people expect.

It often remains undetected until a significant fracture happens. That's why osteoporosis awareness is so important, especially for senior men.

At Diamond Ridge, conveniently located in Troy, NY, we support the overall well-being of our residents, including their bone health. In this post, we'll explain why men should take bone strength seriously, what signs to look out for, and how to build stronger bones through healthy habits.

If you're a senior or care about one, this information is worth knowing.

What Is Osteoporosis in Men?

Put simply, osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones, making them more prone to fractures. While it's often linked to women, men can also experience significant bone loss as they age. In fact, millions of men in the U.S. are affected by this condition, but many don't realize it until they suffer a fracture.

In men, osteoporosis usually develops later in life and tends to progress quietly. Because male bone loss happens more slowly, early signs are often missed.

As time goes on, bones may weaken and become more brittle, increasing the risk of fractures in areas like the wrist, spine, or hips. Several risk factors increase the chances of developing osteoporosis. These include:

  • Low testosterone
  • Poor diet
  • Lack of exercise
  • Smoking
  • Alcohol use
  • Long-term use of certain medications

Men with a family history of osteoporosis or those who have had previous fractures are also more at risk.

Why It's Often Overlooked

The reality is that osteoporosis is often seen as a women's health issue, which means it's commonly overlooked in men. Because of this, men are less likely to be screened or treated for the condition, even though they can face serious health risks from it.

Many healthcare providers don't routinely check bone density in older men unless there's already been a fracture. This leads to delayed diagnoses and missed chances to prevent bone loss. Men also may not talk to their doctors about bone health because they don't think it applies to them.

This lack of awareness can be dangerous. When osteoporosis isn't caught early, the risk of a major injury, like a hip fracture, goes up. These injuries can lead to long recovery times and even long-term disability.

Raising awareness about osteoporosis in men is key. The more men know about their risk, the more likely they are to take steps to stay healthy and strong in older age.

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

Osteoporosis is often referred to as a "silent" condition because it typically shows no obvious symptoms in its early stages. Many men don't realize they have it until they experience a broken bone, often from a minor fall or bump.

Still, there are signs to look out for. Back pain, especially if it's sudden and sharp, may be caused by a small fracture in the spine.

A noticeable loss of height or a stooped posture can also be warning signs. These changes often happen slowly, so they might not be obvious right away.

If you've had a fracture after age 50 or a noticeable decrease in strength or balance, it's a good idea to talk to your doctor. They may recommend a bone density test to check your bone strength.

Knowing what to watch for can help men take action early. Catching osteoporosis before a serious injury happens is one of the best ways to protect your health.

Key Steps to Strengthen Bone Health

Thankfully, there are simple steps men can take to protect and strengthen their bonesA balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D is a good place to start.

These nutrients support bone structure and help your body absorb and use minerals properly. Dairy products, leafy greens, and fortified cereals are all helpful options.

Staying active is also important. Weight-bearing exercises like walking, light strength training, and resistance bands help keep bones strong.

At Diamond Ridge, we support the well-being of our residents with wellness programs that promote safe and healthy movement for older adults.

Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol are two more ways to protect your bones. These habits can gradually weaken bones and increase the likelihood of fractures.

Routine check-ups and bone density screenings are also helpful, especially if you're over 65 or have risk factors. Taking care of your bones now can help you stay active and independent for years to come.

Safe Exercise Ideas for Men With Osteoporosis

Exercise is a key part of managing osteoporosis, but it's important to choose safe activities that won't put too much strain on your bones. For men with osteoporosis, low-impact exercises are the most suitable option.

Walking is a great option, as it supports bone strength without high risk. Swimming and cycling are also gentle on the joints while helping with balance and fitness.

Using light weights or resistance bands for strength training can help build muscle and enhance bone health. Stretching and balance exercises, such as tai chi or chair yoga, can improve coordination and help prevent falls.

It's important to avoid high-impact movements or any exercise that involves twisting or bending forward sharply, especially if you have spinal issues. It's also important to consult with your doctor or physical therapist before beginning any new exercise routine.

Bone Health Tips for Senior Men's Health 

The bottom line is that osteoporosis in men is more common than many think, but with the right steps, it's possible to reduce risk and stay strong. Paying attention to bone loss in men and making healthy changes early can support better mobility and independence.

Here at Diamond Ridge in Troy, NY, we help residents focus on wellness and aging safely through supportive programs and care. In particular, our independent living service is designed to increase freedom and promote an active lifestyle, thanks to a wide range of amenities such as an activity room, a library, a community center, and a health and fitness center.

Schedule a tour to see how our senior living community can support your health and lifestyle goals

Written ByDiamond Ridge

Saturday, July 12, 2025

BE LABEL-SAVVY TO STAY HEALTHY for organic food among health-conscious consumers

PETALING JAYA: The multi-billion-­ringgit global organic food and beverage market is expected to grow more by 2030, according to market research firm Grand View Research.

For Malaysia, there is a growing appetite for organic food among health-conscious consumers.

CLICK TO ENLARGECLICK TO ENLARGE

But how do people know whether the “organic” foodstuff they buy are truly organic?

An important source is the myOrganic sticker that is usually found on the packaging of organic foodstuff sold at shops.

The myOrganic certification scheme is used to promote, implement and facilitate the adoption of organic agriculture, explains Agriculture Department (DOA) director-general Datuk Nor Sam Alwi.

“This certification scheme covers various organic activities, including fresh produce farming, beekeeping, the breeding of organic plant varieties and wild harvesting.

ALSO READ: Verifying food markers not quite an organic process

“The Malaysian Organic Certification Scheme is now known as myOrganic,” she said in in a statement to The Star.

To safeguard the authenticity of certified organic products, the regulation of organic items is primarily governed under the Food Act 1983 and Food Regulations 1985, overseen by the Health Ministry, she added.

The Agriculture and Food Security Ministry has also registered the myOrganic certification logo with the Intellectual Property Corporation of Malaysia (MyIPO) as a legitimate trademark.

“If the DOA receives complaints about the misuse of this logo, the matter will be referred to the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry for further investigation.

“In cases where fraud is confirmed, the offending company may be prosecuted under the Trademarks Act 2019,” she said.

Upon conviction, offenders may face a fine of up to RM10,000 per item bearing the misused trademark, imprisonment of up to three years or both.

ALSO READ: How bugs help you spot organic durians

Nor Sam said the department has issued guidelines to certificate holders outlining the terms and conditions for the use of the myOrganic logo.

“However, we also rely on the cooperation of consumers to address the risks of fraud and logo misuse by lodging complaints where appropriate.

“Matters related to processing, repackaging or importation of organic products fall strictly under the jurisdiction of the Health Ministry,” she said.

To create awareness, the department is actively carrying out promotional activities targeting consumers through physical events and social media platforms, as well as by engaging with local organic associations.

“These initiatives focus on promoting Good Agricultural Prac­tices (GAP), highlighting the importance of recognising the myOrganic logo, encouraging the purchase of certified farm produce.

“Additionally, consumers can verify the validity of organic certification by visiting the DOA website at www.doa.gov.my under the list of certified recipients,” she said.

Dr Juju Nakasha Jaafar, senior lecturer at the Faculty of Agri­culture at Universiti Putra Malay­sia, said there has been confusion on the authenticity of organic products.

“For example, a seller might claim he is selling pesticide-free or chemical-free vegetables, which gives consumers the impression that the products are organic.

“In reality, these vegetables may be free from chemical pesticides but are still grown using chemical fertilisers and thus do not qualify as organic,” she said.

“For vegetables to be certified as organic, all input must be completely natural.

“This includes compost fertilisers, organic pesticides and non-genetically modified organism seeds.”

These are outlined in the myOrganic certification guidelines.

“Consumers can look for the myOrganic logo on vegetable products to ensure they are truly organic.

“The DOA strictly regulates this certification,” she said, adding that more details can be found on the DOA website.

Federation of Malaysian Consumers Associations (Fomca) secretary-general Dr Saravanan Thambirajah said traders must verify the certification documents provided by suppliers before selling or labelling any product as organic.

“They should only use the term ‘organic’ when backed by certification,” he said.

Saravanan said consumers should look for official certification logos on packaging and not rely solely on general claims like ‘natural’.

“If you suspect a product is being falsely marketed as organic, you should report it to the Domestic Trade and Cost of Living Ministry or lodge a complaint with Fomca,” he added.--

By KHOO GEK SANDIVYA THERESA RAVIRAGANANTHINI VETHASALAM

https://www.thestar.com.my/news/nation/2025/07/12/be-label-savvy-to-stay-healthy

Friday, July 11, 2025

China, Australia eye closer bilateral trade ties in Albanese’s upcoming trip, relationship with China means jobs in Australia

 Reliable partnership injects stability into the world: expert

China Australia photo: VCG

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has stressed the importance of Australia's ties with China during a press conference on Friday where he talked up his upcoming six-day visit to the country.

"I look forward very much to engaging with the Chinese leadership as well as visiting Shanghai, Beijing and Chengdu," Albanese said, stressing that one in four Australian jobs depend on trade, with about 25 percent of Australian exports heading to China, the Australian Broadcasting Corporation reported on Friday.

"The relationship with China means jobs in Australia. It's as simple as that," said the Australian Prime Minister.

Analysts said that Australia, as an export-oriented economy, is highly dependent on international markets, with China being a crucial destination for its exports. Maintaining stable trade relations with China is essential for the growth and development of Australia's export-driven industries. Beyond exports, Australia also has substantial import requirements from China. A more diversified and balanced trade relationship has the potential to create new opportunities and stimulate job creation in Australia.

At the invitation of Premier of the State Council Li Qiang, Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese will pay an official visit to China from July 12 to 18, according to the Chinese Foreign Ministry's website on Tuesday.

This would be Albanese's second visit to China as prime minister, according to a Reuters report. His 2023 visit to Beijing as prime minister broke a seven-year diplomatic freeze, and he emphasized the need for communication with China, despite differences between the two trading partners, said the Reuters report.

"China remains Australia's largest trading partner, accounting for almost one third of our total trade, and will remain so for the foreseeable future," Albanese said. "Trade is now flowing freely, to the benefit of both countries and to people and businesses on both sides. We will continue to patiently and deliberately work towards a stable relationship with China, with dialogue at its core," he added.

Days before he heads to China, Albanese told reporters in Hobart that "China's an important trading partner for Australia, 25 percent of our exports go to China… What that means is jobs, and one of the things that my government prioritizes is jobs," Bloomberg reported. 

China has been Australia's largest trading partner, export destination and source of imports for 16 consecutive years. In order to seek to strengthen ties with China, discussions this time will focus on global and regional issues, plus bilateral cooperation on areas including trade and tourism. China accounts for nearly 26 percent of Australia's total goods and service trade, news.com.au reported on Tuesday. 

The visit carries special significance as the start of the second decade of the China-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership. It also reflects Australia's desire to seek more reliable partners in an uncertain world order to create stability and certainty, with China being the obvious choice, said a Chinese expert.

Chen Hong, director of the Asia Pacific Studies Centre at East China Normal University, told the Global Times on Friday that Albanese's visit, which is longer than the usual two or three days, is expected to play an important role in regional stability and development, including upholding multilateralism and free trade. 

Economic and trade relations serve as a stabilizer and booster for China-Australia relations, promoting their development, Chen said, adding that the strengthening of bilateral ties further drives economic cooperation, creating a mutually reinforcing dynamic.

For example, China provides a vast and stable consumption market for Australian minerals, wine, beef, lobster and other products. Meanwhile, Chinese products such as electric vehicles and home appliances have a significant market in Australia, Chen said.

"The Business Council of Australia is organizing the trade delegation which will depart Australia on Saturday. There'll be a range of activities in Shanghai. There'll be businesses travelling from Australia, but also ones that are Australian businesses based in China. There's a very successful Chamber of Commerce…in Shanghai, and I look forward to the visit," Albanese said during a press conference on Thursday local time.

According to media reports, in Beijing, Albanese will attend the annual meeting between the Chinese and Australian Prime Ministers, the China-Australia CEO Roundtable, and will also meet with Chinese leaders. There are also reports that Albanese may attend the third China International Supply Chain Expo.

A 14-person business delegation will also accompany Albanese for the Australia-China CEO Roundtable, which will include leaders from industries representing banking, resources, tertiary education and food. 

This includes ANZ International's managing director Simon Ireland, BHP Australia president Geraldine Slattery, Fortescue Metals Group executive chairman Andrew Forrest, Rio Tinto chief executive Kellie Parker, SunRice chief executive Paul Serra and UNSW Vice-Chancellor and president Attila Brungs, according to local Australian media outlets.

The Australian Prime Minister will also visit Shanghai and Chengdu in Southwest China's Sichuan Province, where he will meet business, tourism and sport representatives and build on Australia's strong economic and trade links with China, according to a press release on the official website of the Australian prime minister on Tuesday local time.

Chen noted that Albanese's itinerary clearly indicates Australia's intention to deepen economic and trade cooperation with China, which brings renewed optimism for the future of China-Australia relations. Unlike his previous four-day visit, this trip spans a full week, highlighting its importance. The choice of destinations is also significant: Beijing for high-level dialogue, Shanghai for economic and trade exchanges, and the newly added city Chengdu, which reflects a deeper and more pragmatic cooperation between the two countries. 

Chengdu, known for its innovation in technology, services, and entertainment industries, will offer new opportunities for collaboration, Zhou Mi, a senior researcher at the Chinese Academy of International Trade and Economic Cooperation, told the Global Times on Friday.

Beyond traditional areas of cooperation such as agriculture and mining, China-Australia collaboration is set to explore new frontiers. According to Zhou, the potential for cooperation in clean energy, green steel, finance, elderly care, and high-tech industries is vast. Tourism, steadily recovering since the pandemic, is another key area of cooperation that contributes to economic growth and people-to-people ties, he added.

At present, China has expanded visa-free entry to more than 70 countries. Citizens from these countries can now enter China for stays of up to 30 days without a visa. This list included Australian citizens, who since November were exempt from needing a visa for stays of up to 30 days, an extension of 15 days since it was first granted in July 2024. China has also long been a major source of international students and overseas tourists for Australia.

However, ahead of the anticipated visit, some voices in Australia are still attempting to magnify differences. Chen said these controversial voices do not represent the mainstream direction of bilateral economic and trade cooperation. It is normal for the two to have disputes, but the key lies in how to properly resolve them.

Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesperson Mao Ning said at a regular press briefing on Tuesday that the visit comes as the China-Australia comprehensive strategic partnership enters its second decade. "Under the guidance of the leaders of the two countries and with the joint efforts of both sides, China-Australia relations have continued to improve," Mao said.

"China is willing to work with Australia to take this visit as an opportunity to strengthen communication, enhance mutual trust, expand practical cooperation, and advance the comprehensive strategic partnership between the two countries," Mao added.

Source link https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202507/1338132.shtml

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China, Australia strengthen green energy, tourism cooperation during Albanese’s official visit

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Malaysia to learn from China in applying technology in daily life in ways that benefit wide public: minister

 

Chang Lih Kang, minister of Science, Technology and Innovation of Malaysia, speaks at the a parallel sub-forum at Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting in Beijing on July 11, 2025. Photo: Li Hao/GT

China has done a great job in applying technology in daily life in ways that benefit all walks of life, and that's something Malaysia hopes to learn, Chang Lih Kang, Malaysia's minister of Science, Technology and Innovation told the Global Times, noting that the two countries have broadened technological cooperation in AI, nuclear energy and digital economy. 


Recently, China and Malaysia have signed several MoUs and documents on technological cooperation during the high-level exchange between the two countries, Chang, who is attending the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting in Beijing, told the Global Times on Friday. He gave examples, such as the two governments jointly allocating funds for six research and development projects, including artificial intelligence, advanced materials, clean energy, and more. 

"In addition, we have joint laboratories, including those under the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI)," said Chang, noting that many of the projects outlined in the documents and MoUs have already been implemented or are still in progress.

The inaugural meeting of the China-Malaysia joint laboratory on oils and fats processing and safety, under the BRI, was held in June. This first-of-its-kind laboratory between China and Malaysia within the BRI framework is expected to bolster the palm oil trade and enhance broader industrial cooperation between the two countries, media reported. 

According to the joint statement between China and Malaysia on building a high-level strategic China-Malaysia community with a shared future signed in April, both sides will fully utilize the intergovernmental Joint Committee on Science, Technology and Innovation Cooperation, implement the China-Malaysia Joint Research Project and Science and Technology People-to-People Exchange Programme, jointly promote the establishment of joint research and development platforms such as joint laboratories, enhance cooperation on science parks and technology transfer, and continue to deepen the bilateral science and innovation cooperation in emerging technologies.

Chang said the scientific cooperation between the two countries also includes exchanges among scientists, academic institutions, and students, covering a wide range of areas, such as AI, nuclear energy, clean energy, and the digital economy.

The minister praised China for its success in applying technology to everyday life in ways that benefit different segments of the population. He believes this is a way of using technology to add warmth to civilization. If science does not help ordinary people, no matter how advanced the technology is, it is useless. "This is what we hope to learn from China," said Chang. 

Transnational collaboration is crucial in the scientific community. No single country can independently address the global challenges we face, such as climate change and food security. "In addition to bilateral cooperation with China, we also advocate for multilateral partnerships. Only by engaging more regions and countries in collaborative efforts can we truly tackle the pressing issues confronting the world," said Chang.

China, ASEAN vow co-op amid global challenges

 

Partnership a crucial pillar for regional, world devt, stability: expert



Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi joins hands with ASEAN foreign ministers for a group photo during the ASEAN Post-Ministerial Conference with China at the Kuala Lumpur Convention Centre in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia on July 10, 2025. Photo: VCG

China and ASEAN foreign ministers reaffirmed their wish for further cooperation and joint efforts to maintain regional peace and stability on Thursday during the China-ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting held in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. Analysts believe that China-ASEAN cooperation has now become a crucial pillar for regional as well as global development and stability, especially amid the US' sweeping and coercive series of tariffs. 

China has always been the most reliable stabilizing force in a turbulent world and the most dependable partner for ASEAN members to address challenges, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi said on Thursday at the meeting in the Malaysian capital. 

Noting that China and ASEAN share similar development concepts, common demands and integrated interests, Wang said that China regards ASEAN as a priority direction for neighborhood diplomacy and a pioneer area for promoting the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.

Wang also a member of the Political Bureau of the CPC Central Committee, briefed the achievements of China-ASEAN cooperation and put forward four proposals.

Wang said that China is willing to work with ASEAN countries to practice open regionalism and true multilateralism and make greater contributions to regional and global governance.

In terms of win-win cooperation, Wang said that China is willing to work with ASEAN to build China-ASEAN Free Trade Area 3.0, implement the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement to a high quality, and create a high-level free trade network.

While stating that China is willing to take the lead in signing the Protocol to the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone, Wang stressed that the South China Sea is the common home of regional countries, rather than a "gladiatorial arena" for major powers. 

China is willing to expand cooperation with ASEAN members in areas such as marine environmental protection, navigation safety, maritime law enforcement and key marine infrastructure, fully implement the Declaration on the Conduct of Parties in the South China Sea, and advance consultations on the Code of Conduct (COC) in the South China Sea, Wang said. 

China is willing to continue to advocate dialogue, exchanges and mutual learning among different civilizations with ASEAN countries, Wang said.

The participating countries said that China has always been one of the most important dialogue partners of ASEAN, and they are willing to accelerate the alignment of development strategies with China, and cooperate under the Belt and Road Initiative at a high quality, according to the release from the Chinese Foreign Ministry. 

They also said that they are willing to work with China to safeguard multilateralism and the multilateral trading system and jointly address global challenges, further strengthen unity and cooperation with China, jointly advance the modernization process in Asia, and promote regional peace, stability and prosperity.

"The China-ASEAN relationship is now a vital pillar for regional as well as global development and stability," Luo Yongkun, a researcher at the Institute of International Studies of the Shanghai Academy of Social Sciences, told the Global Times on Thursday. 

Against the backdrop of tense major power relations and the impact of the US tariff war on regional development, the numerous consensuses reached between China and ASEAN on cooperative development and maintaining regional peace and stability align with the aspirations of all parties, marking a significant outcome of this foreign ministers' meeting, Luo noted. 

According to the Chinese Foreign Ministry, participants said they appreciate China's willingness to take the lead in signing the Protocol to the Treaty on the Southeast Asia Nuclear Weapon-Free Zone, and look forward to the early conclusion of the COC in the South China Sea by all parties. 

Ge Hongliang, Vice Dean of the ASEAN College at Guangxi Minzu University, told the Global Times that China and ASEAN have a shared vision for implementing denuclearization and the peaceful use of nuclear resources in Southeast Asia.

According to the expert, China's willingness to take the lead in signing [Protocol to the Treaty on SEAWFZ] demonstrates Beijing's support for ASEAN-led regional governance frameworks, which is of great significance to maintaining regional security order, particularly nuclear safety.

In addition, the positive stance of ASEAN countries on the South China Sea issue is conductive to establishing a platform for dialogue and communication between China and Southeast Asian nations on South China Sea matters, enhancing mutual trust, Ge added. 

US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met counterparts in Southeast Asia on Thursday during his first visit to the region since taking office, according to Reuters. 

It comes as the US government rolls out higher tariffs against Southeast Asian nations. Washington has announced plans for tariffs on Malaysia and five other ASEAN countries, with Malaysia facing a 25 percent tariff, Laos and Myanmar 40 percent, Cambodia and Thailand 36 per cent, and Indonesia 32 percent, starting from August 1, the Straits Times reported. 

Addressing the opening of the China-ASEAN Foreign Ministers' Meeting, Malaysia's Foreign Minister Datuk Seri Mohamad Hasan hailed the enhanced China-ASEAN economic cooperation, saying that the signing of the ACFTA 3.0, which is scheduled for later this year, comes at an opportune moment, according to Malaysian national news agency Bernama.

China and ASEAN remain dedicated to deepening ties and advancing regional cooperation, actively promoting the development of industrial chains that enhance regional stability, and bolstering the resilience of regional trade and investment, so as to counter the trade coercion and unilateralism from Washington, said the expert. 

In 2024, China and ASEAN had already been each other's largest trading partner for the fifth consecutive year, the Xinhua News Agency reported. Official data shows that the zero-tariff coverage rate between China and ASEAN has remained at above 65 percent. In 2024, bilateral trade in goods reached $982.34 billion, a year-on-year growth of 7.8 percent.

"Southeast Asian countries have many grievances against the US, perceiving its tariffs as a means of geopolitical coercion," Luo said, "While China's consistent and robust economic growth provides regional countries with confidence and stability."- Global Times