Malaysia, US begin formal trade talks to address tariff issues
KUALA LUMPUR: Malaysia and the United States began formal negotiations via video conference this morning to address tariff-related issues, with talks led by the Investment, Trade and Industry Ministry's (MITI) deputy secretary-general (trade), Mastura Ahmad Mustafa.
Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz said Mastura, who is also Malaysia's chief negotiator, held the meeting with the Assistant US Trade Representative for Southeast Asia and the Pacific, Sarah Ellerman.
"She has already started the meeting this morning — it's being held online. That is why she is not here — she is currently in a session with her US counterpart, Sarah Ellerman," he said at a press conference on MITI's First Quarter 2025 Report Card.
Tengku Zafrul declined to elaborate. The trade talks are primarily aimed at ensuring that the US does not impose reciprocal tariffs on Malaysia.
The US has announced a 24 per cent tariff on most Malaysian goods, along with a range of duties affecting around 60 countries. However, the tariffs have been suspended for 90 days to allow for trade negotiations.
Tengku Zafrul said Malaysia had held discussions with Ellerman during her visit to Malaysia for an ASEAN-related meeting.
"As Malaysia holds the Asean chairmanship this year, she was invited to attend a meeting involving senior Asean trade officials, with participation from the US, the EU, Japan, Korea, and Thailand.
"That same person — Sarah Ellerman — is now serving as the chief negotiator for the US," he said.
Previously, Tengku Zafrul said that the United States had made four key demands to Malaysia in the ongoing tariff negotiations, aimed at reaching a mutually beneficial outcome.
The priorities focus on non-tariff barriers, addressing the trade deficit, safeguarding US technology, and encouraging investment in American industries.
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