KUALA LUMPUR, July 10 — Malaysia still has a window to strike a fair deal with the United States before a new 25 per cent tariff takes effect on August 1, said Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Datuk Seri Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
Speaking after the US surprised many with its announcement, Tengku Zafrul confirmed that talks are ongoing, with high-level engagements scheduled — including a call with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and a meeting between Prime Minister Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim and US Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
While reaffirming Malaysia’s neutral stance and commitment to multilateralism, Tengku Zafrul emphasised that negotiations are guided by national interests and firm red lines. He said Malaysia’s offers already cover nearly all of Washington’s requests across key sectors, from industrial products to agriculture.
Commercial deals, including Malaysia Airlines’ Boeing purchase, also play a role in trade balancing. “Negotiation is about balance and pragmatism,” he said, adding that while the one-point increase from 24 to 25 per cent was unexplained, Malaysia will continue pushing for a comprehensive, mutually beneficial solution.
