Malaysia seeks resolution as Trump hits Asia with revised tariffs

4 天前

Malaysia seeks resolution as Trump hits Asia with revised tariffs

Malaysia has expressed concern and called for continued dialogue after United States President Donald Trump announced the imposition of a 25 per cent reciprocal tariff on Malaysian exports, effective Aug 1, 2025.

In an official statement, Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz (main image),  said the Malaysian government “takes note” of the move and reaffirmed its commitment to maintaining constructive engagement with Washington.

“Malaysia values its longstanding economic and trade relationship with the United States, and recognises the important role of open and fair trade in supporting jobs and growth in both our countries,” said Tengku Zafrul.

“Malaysia is committed to continuing engagement with the US towards a balanced, mutually beneficial, and comprehensive trade agreement.”

The tariff is part of a broader initiative by Trump targeting several Southeast and East Asian economies. Besides the 25 per cent tariff on Malaysia, Trump also announced that:

• Imports from Japan and South Korea will be subject to 25 per cent tariffs.

• Indonesia will face a 32 per cent tariff.

• Thailand and Cambodia will each face 36 per cent tariffs.

• Laos and Myanmar will each face 40 per cent tariffs.

The US had earlier set a July 9 deadline for countries to agree to a trade deal.

Tengku Zafrul said Malaysia will continue discussions with its US counterparts in good faith to address outstanding issues, clarify the scope and impact of the announced tariffs, and pursue avenues for the timely conclusion of negotiations.

“While we acknowledge the concerns raised by the US regarding trade imbalances and market access, we believe that constructive engagement and dialogue remain the best path forward,” said the ministry.

“Malaysia strongly believes that together, we can find mutually acceptable solutions that safeguard the interests of both our countries and our peoples, while ensuring that bilateral trade and investment remain a positive force for sustainable economic development.”

The US is Malaysia’s second-largest trading partner and largest export destination. In 2024, total trade rose nearly 30 per cent to RM324.9 billion (US$71.4 billion). Exports to the US reached RM198.7 billion (US$43.7 billion), while imports stood at RM126.3 billion (US$27.7 billion).

“The Malaysian government remains committed to protecting the interests of Malaysian businesses, workers, and consumers, and will take all necessary steps to mitigate the impact of these new measures. We thank all stakeholders for their continued support and cooperation,” said the ministry.

The announcement of the tariffs comes as US Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrives in Kuala Lumpur for the Asean-United States Post-Ministerial Conference, the East Asia Summit Foreign Ministers’ Meeting, and the Asean Regional Forum Foreign Ministers’ Meeting from today until July 12.

Rubio is also scheduled to meet senior Malaysian government officials during his visit – his first trip to Asia as Secretary of State.

According to the US State Department, Rubio is focused on reaffirming the United States’ commitment to advancing a free, open, and secure Indo-Pacific region.

“During this trip, the Secretary will highlight the strength of our Comprehensive Strategic Partnership with Asean in delivering results for the American people and the people of Southeast Asia, as well as our commitment to building on our Comprehensive Partnership with Malaysia,” it said in a statement.

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