The decision to raise tariffs on Malaysian exports to 25% was made unilaterally by U.S. President Donald Trump and did not result from a formal negotiation process.
This was confirmed by the Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry, Tengku Zafrul Abdul Aziz, who stated that Malaysia had officially raised the issue with the Office of the United States Trade Representative (USTR), but has yet to receive any response.
“This matter falls under the direct authority of the U.S. President. Similarly, Japan has also sought clarification on the sudden one-percent increase,” he said during a press conference on the U.S. tariff issue held earlier today.
Nevertheless, Tengku Zafrul emphasized the importance of assessing this issue within a broader and more objective context.
“In reality, the one-percent increase is not a substantial figure. Malaysia’s overall tariff level remains lower than that imposed on some of our regional neighbors, including Thailand and Indonesia.
“Most importantly, the new tariff rate has not yet taken effect. It is scheduled to be implemented only in August. Our ministry will continue to participate in the upcoming hearing sessions,” he explained.
Tengku Zafrul also reaffirmed Malaysia’s firm stance on national sovereignty, stressing that it is a non-negotiable principle under any circumstances.
