Halal rules, bumiputera equity among US concerns that prompted tariffs
Malaysia's halal import restrictions and requirements for bumiputera equity in foreign-owned companies have been flagged by the United States as key trade barriers cited among the reasons behind the 24 percent reciprocal tariff on Malaysian exports.
In its 2025 National Trade Estimate (NTE) Report on Foreign Trade Barriers, the Office of the US Trade Representative (USTR) said Malaysia's halal import requirements were more stringent than international norms.
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