PETALING JAYA: There is no certainty about Trump’s tariffs, only uncertainty, laments Investment, Trade and Industry Minister Tengku Datuk Seri Zafrul Abdul Aziz.
On his social media, Tengku Zafrul pointed out how the United States changed its tariff policy again by postponing increases for many countries while increasing pressure on China.
Tengku Zafrul’s statement comes after a sudden u-turn by United States President Donald Trump, on temporarily lowering the hefty duties he had just imposed on dozens of countries that have sent US stocks rocketing higher.
These latest developments will be among the topics of discussion at the Asean Economic Ministers’ Meeting, which Tengku Zafrul will chair on Friday (April 10) morning.
“I welcome this move, but at the same time, we must acknowledge that this uncertainty raises questions about the direction of global trade and its impact on Asean.
“Malaysia is actively assessing the implications of these changes and remains committed to working with Asean partners in reducing disruptions, strengthening regional economic resilience, and striving for balanced and stable trade relations.
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“Malaysia has always been and will continue to be an open trade and investment partner to all countries, including China and the United States,” he said on Thursday (April 9).
Tengku Zafrul also said that Asean unity and regional economic integration will be more important than ever, and as such, all forms of support from partners are welcomed in finding beneficial solutions to trade issues with the United States.
Additionally, Malaysia will continue its existing strategy to diversify trade and explore new markets, as well as deepen ties with existing markets, as a precautionary measure against the current uncertainties, he said.
He said the priority is to ensure Malaysia remains competitive while navigating through this ever-changing landscape.
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