KUALA LUMPUR, June 22 — Malaysia’s discussions with the United States trade representative and commerce secretary on tariffs are progressing well, said Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
He said the Malaysian and US representatives have expressed their desire to finalise negotiations before the expiry of a 90-day pause on tariff implementation, and agreed to intensify efforts to reach an agreement acceptable to key stakeholders in both countries.
In a statement today, he highlighted that the US has been one of Malaysia’s top three export markets over the past decade.
“In May 2025, exports to the US recorded the eighth consecutive month of double-digit growth,” he said.
A significant share of Malaysia’s exports to the US supports and complements US domestic industries in sectors such as electrical and electronics, semiconductors, medical devices, machinery, equipment, and parts.
Malaysia is also a key supplier of intermediate goods to US-based manufacturing industries.
“Miti has remained steadfast in upholding Malaysia’s interests in all trade and investment relations, particularly in safeguarding the integrity of Malaysia’s domestic commitments and sovereign rights,” he added.
He said Miti expects the negotiations to secure Malaysia’s supply chains and benefit local businesses, especially small and medium enterprises, while creating more high-paying jobs for Malaysians.
“These efforts will further strengthen Malaysia’s position as a preferred investment destination in the region and drive the Madani economic transformation agenda towards becoming a hi-tech, high-income nation,” said Tengku Zafrul.
Tengku Zafrul led a working visit to Washington DC, the United States, from Wednesday to Friday. The visit focused on continuing tariff negotiations with US Trade Representative Jamieson Greer and US Commerce Secretary Howard Lutnick.
