Sigma Capital

03-04-2025

Malaysia Seeks Fair Trade Talks with U.S. After Tariff Hike

Source: MIST

Trading Economics-


Malaysia is in discussions with U.S. officials to ensure equitable trade terms following President Trump’s new tariffs, including a 10% universal import levy and a 24% reciprocal duty on Malaysian goods. The Ministry of Investment, Trade & Industry (MITI) recognized the tariffs as disruptive but stressed Malaysia’s focus on maintaining open trade rather than retaliating. MITI reiterated its intention to protect national economic interests while reinforcing U.S. trade relations. As the U.S.’s 15th-largest trading partner in 2024, Malaysia logged a USD 24.8 billion trade surplus with America. While the U.S. faces a goods deficit with Malaysia, it retains a services surplus, bolstered by decades of U.S. corporate presence in the country. Kuala Lumpur plans to push for mutual trade benefits and a potential technology pact to deepen collaboration in semiconductors, aerospace, and digital industries.