Malaysia Defends US Trade Pact Amid Sovereignty Concerns
Malaysia has defended its reciprocal trade agreement with the United States, stating that the country has not surrendered its sovereignty in safeguarding the economy from harsher sanctions.
The deal, signed by Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim and US President Donald Trump, maintains the White House’s unilateral 19 per cent tariff on Malaysian exports, but grants exemptions for 1,711 essential products, including electronics, rubber, and palm-oil derivatives.
A clause in the agreement requires Malaysia to align itself with the US on economic restrictions or sanctions against a third country.
US President Donald Trump and Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim signed a critical minerals deal in Kuala Lumpur on Oct 26.
Author's summary: Malaysia defends US trade pact amid concerns.